Illuminar Compile: The Parallax Syndrome Dates: Feb 1st to Feb 28th Mission: The Parallax Syndrome >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mission: The Parallax Syndrome Day: 1- 2 Stardate 2446.03.02 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> 2446.03.01 (USS Rhyne - Deck 1 - Bridge - FO Commander Sienna Williams-Verin - 1958) 2446.03.02 (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 5 - Sickbay - SO Ensign Larry ÔLuckyÕ Day - 0003) ( Day 2- USS Rhyne Ð Bridge Ð FO Commander Sienna Williams-Verin - 00.04) ( IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Commander Kar'chek/ yaS waÕdIch SanÕdras- 0020) (USS Rhyne Ð Deck 1- Bridge Ð SFI - Michael Weston - 0025) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory 2 - 0030) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal - 0035) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 12 - Security Operations Center - SecO - PO1 Steven Hammons - 0039) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 00.40) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SecO - Ensign Galk, Son of Jos of the House of Kor - 0041) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - 3/O CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice 0042) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory 1 - 0044) (USS Rhyne Ð Bridge Ð Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee - 00.45) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0045) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0045) (USS Rhyne - Deck 4 -Medical Center - MO Dr. Kyllee Stev - 0046) (USS Illiminar -- Bridge Deck 1 -- 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice - 0047) (USS Rhyne - Deck 4 -Medical Center - CSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl, Dr. Kyllee Stev, Security PO3 PÕRah, PO3 Hercules Devers - 0047) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0048) ( IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Commander Kar'chek- 0048) (USS Rhyne Ð Bridge Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee Ð 0050) (USS Rhyne - Deck 14 - Shuttle Bay - Pilot- Lt. Arthur ÔSnoopyÕ Corday, Medics Mulder and Scully and EO Angus McGuyver - 0050) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 00.50) (USS Rhyne Ð Deck 1- Bridge Ð SFI - Michael Weston - 0051) (USS Rhyne - Deck 13 - Shuttle Bay - Medic Fox Mulder and EO Angus McGuyver - 0053) (USS Rhyne Ð Deck 1- Bridge Ð EO Ð Ensign Scott Matrix - 0053) (USS Rhyne - Deck 14 - Shuttle Bay - Pilot- Lt. Arthur ÔSnoopyÕ Corday, Medic Dana Scully and Ensign Andy Taylor - 0054) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - Medic Fox Mulder, Max Klinger and EO Angus McGuyver - 0056) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice - 0057) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0057) ( IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - yaS waÕdIch - SanÕdras- 0059) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0100) ( IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Kar'chek- 0102) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - EO Angus McGuyver - 0102) (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Operations Center - SFI Michael Weston - 0106) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0110) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - EO Angus McGuyver - 0112) (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Operations Center - Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee - 0115) (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Operations Center - SO Ensign Andy Taylor - 0116) (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Operations Center - Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee - 0120) (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0125) (USS Rhyne - Deck 4 - Corridor - Leeza Pel - 0130) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.30) (USS Rhyne - Deck B - TIC - Pilot Lt. Corday, SecO Ensign Andy Taylor - 0130) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.32) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.35) (USS Rhyne - Deck B Ð Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee - 0135) (USS Rhyne Ð Deck 1- Battle Operations Center Ð EO Ð Ensign Scott Matrix - 0137) ( USS Illuminar - Deck 1- Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal - 0140) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0142) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0143) (IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - yaS waÕdIch - SanÕdras- 0145) (IKS Da'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Kar'chek - 0146) (USS Illuminar - Deck 3 - Personal Quarters - Temas Laredo - 0148) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.50) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal - 0151) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. TÕMur - 0152) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.53) (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Dr. Riven Mias - 0153) (USS Rhyne - Deck B - TIC - FO Commander Sienna Williams-Verin, Pilot Lt. Corday, SecO Ensign Andy Taylor, SFI Michael Weston - 0154) (IKS Da'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Kar'chek - 0155) (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Temas Laredo - 0155) (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Counselor- Dr. Riven Mias - 0158) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice, CTac Lieutenant T'Mur, aCEO Lieutenant Bohb, FO Commander Sienna Verin. SPC Luma Lenai and ACSO Ensign Skashe Winters- 0200) (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Temas Laredo - 0201) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 02.05) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 02.06) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice, Dr. Mason Quincy - 0206) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal- 0207) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 5 - Sickbay - CMO/3XO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice - 0210) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. TÕMur - 0210) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG - 02.10) (IKS Hegh boÕDegh Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - HoD BarÕTok - 0210) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 11- Main Engineering - EO Ð Lt (jg) Bohb- 0320) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 4 - Sickbay - CTO TÕMur, FO Sienna Williams-Verin, CMO/3O Lt. Commander Quinna Solice- 0330) (USS Illuminar -- CMO Office -- Deck 5 -- CMO/3XO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice --0715 ) (USS Illuminar -- The Rec Room -- Deck 11 -- 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice -- 0718) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal- 0720) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO Ð Lt. TÕMur- 0723) (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 07.25) (USS Illuminal -- Bridge Deck 1 -- 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice -- 0728) (USS Illuminar -- Deck 1 -- Bridge -- CO - Captain Sekal --0740) (IKS Hegh boÕDegh Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - HoD BarÕTok - 0741) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge -- CTO Ð Lt. TÕMur - 0743) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge -- CO Ð Captain Sekal - 0745) (IKS Hak'chu - Deck 1 - Command Center -- hOd Ð Pel'Kash - 0747) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 07.50) (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice -- 0755) (Celestial Temple, Home of the Prophets -- The Sisko and Jaton - 0800?) 2446.03.01>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 1 - Bridge - FO Commander Sienna Williams-Verin - 1958) Sienna had been impressed by how easily Weston was able to get into the command systems, opening them to Sienna's purview. Something was watching her, something that felt familiar. A heavy sense of presence came over the bridge. Sy put in a chip to copy the logs, the voice and data recorders and whatever information that could be salvaged. Out of the corner of her eyes, the Bridge flickered and changed from second to second. It was giving her a headache, and she made the mistake of closing her eyes. < ** Time Shift ** > Sienna found herself on the bridge of the Rhyne, facing off against the Illuminar who had come hunting the renegade starship from the ISS. She was dressed in a leather jumpsuit with a gaudy gold sash. She turned as the Illuminar's superior phasers cut through the Rhyne's hull like a knife through butter. The Illuminar was targeting their shields and weapons, disabling the ship so it could be salvaged. And of course capturing most of the traitors so that they could be punished, rehabilitated and executed publicly. Sy had no illusions about what her fate was going to be when Sekal caught up with her. Her Mother would likely pin the agonizer to Sienna, and enjoy the pain. Sophie Verin was one of the best inquisitors in the Fleet. "Our shields are down. Reading multiple boarding teams." Tavay at tactical spoke. "Helm, point us at the Maelstrom and get us into it. We can deal with the temporal anomalies easier than we can deal with..." Her voice trailed off as T'Mur appeared behind Sienna and put a knife to her mate's throat. "I told you that you can't escape me." T'Mur's voice was cold, calculating. It was the last thing that the alter universe Sienna heard before she felt the dreaded nerve pinch, her world going dark, her body crumpling to the deck as T'Mur stood there, triumphant. 2446.03.02>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 5 - Sickbay - SO Ensign Larry ÔLuckyÕ Day - 0003) The pains both indescribable and nearly unbearable. He had no idea why he was in pain. One minute he was fine, more than fine, he felt great, the next pain shot through him like razor blades. He could hear the words being said around him the pain prevented him from comprehending them, nor even replying. He felt as though he were going to die, and he realized that he had nobody who would even care. The injections of pain killers were barely noticeable, and did absolutely nothing to give him any relief. It was as if he were being pulled apart, cell by cell. ÒMr. Day, Can you hear me?Ó Mason asked The words were almost a whisper through the fog of his pain. He wanted to answer, but all that came out were moans. ÒDust,Ó he called out, ÒNed. WhatÕs happening to me.Ó Then he felt the final injection, and the fog of unconsciousness close in on him. His last words were the only thing he could think, ÒPenn and TellÉÓ Then he was unconscious. All of the medical staff looked from the now unconscious Day, who still managed to moan in pain slightly. Nurse Kelly was the first to speak up, ÒShould we call them in?Ó (reply Quincy, any in sickbay) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ( Day 2- USS Rhyne Ð Bridge Ð FO Commander Sienna Williams-Verin - 00.04) Sienna staggered as she was thrust from the time shift, falling to her knees in front of the command chair, scraping her knees hard. For a second she felt T'Mur and she smiled, feeling complete again for the first time since beaming over to this crazed ship. A long blink as she pushed herself off the deck, asking, "Something just happened- what was it?" She asked, looking frustrated when told the time. They had work to do still. The communication with the ship came in and out. At some point, the Illuminar had tried to move the Rhyne away from the anomalies that littered this section of space. and Sienna hung on as the ship shook and reluctantly began to move. All the while, she was working on the command panels, successfully rerouting circuits, and getting what she hoped was an accurate overview of the ship. And what she saw did not fill her with confidence. Maybe Luma had been right, salvage was going to be difficult. As for the lifesigns, they fluctuated. At one point there were just a few people, then about double, before the internal sensors gave up trying to reconcile the multiple temporal oddities. =^= Illuminar to away teams. You are to evacuate the Rhyne. Head to the shuttles. =^= Quinna's voice came over the speakers, loud and clear before static sounded. "Gregory to Commander Verin. What are your orders Ma'am?" "Commander? Should we not respond?Ó Lee spoke at the same point that Gregory did. Sienna felt an irrational moment of fear, as if she was cornered. "Of course." Sienna tapped her comm badge, "Verin to Gregory, Illuminar teams. Move to the shuttle bay, evacuate the ship. If you have found survivors, bring them with you, but exercise caution." It was at that point that Sienna realized the klingons were threatening the illuminar. They were supposed to evacuate, but she knew what wasn't going to happen, right as she heard Gregory come to the same conclusion. ÒInstruments shows the phaser banks are operating at 60%Ó remarked Lee as he studied the control panel. Sienna glanced down at her panel, which showed the phasers at about 15% power, then 70%, then 41%... the numbers changing from moment to moment. She stood up and moved over towards Lee. "Verin to Illuminar Away Teams, I want everyone to congregate in the battle module, Level B. Matrix, divert all available power to shield that specific area. It's near a shuttle bay, an intra-ship transporter and life rescue pods. I want every bit of power we can muster to make a safe place. Move it people." She ordered, pulling the isolinear chip she had been transferring data too, tucking it into her uniform top, safely nestled against her skin. She wasn't sure why she did it, but she knew it was important. Lee had cleared the turbolife off the bridge, and Sienna looked around before disabling the bridge, and transferring all control to the battle module. She counted her crew as they filed into the turbolift, entering next to last, Weston following her. As the doors whooshed shut, the deck rocked as the ship took the first blast. "I hope that it holds long enough for us to get there...." She spoke, as the deck rocked again. (reply all illuminar teams) (posted by Mel) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ( IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Commander Kar'chek/ yaS waÕdIch SanÕdras- 0020) "hOd we have them!" The leather creaked beneath him as he turned to his right and a slow smile exposed his teeth. "Where?" "Their signature is indistinct, there is interference from a nearby gAr'shAk but I am certain of it." SanÕdras turned around and threw the back of her hand across the KlingonÕs face, ÒThe question was where, qoH?Ó The star chart of the sector appeared on the main viewer showing where the DacÕKar was and the probable location of the Illuminar. The ship's first officer began to walk towards the screen, her eyes focused on the distortion field around the ship. ÒExplain that rojmuluSDaq ghomÕa,Ó she ordered. The Klingon snarled as he wiped the back of his hand across his mouth, coming away with a smear of purple blood before answering. "It is a pish'nOk, the likes of which I and my honored ancestors have never seen. The readings I am seeing make no sense. Tachyons, plasmodic ionization and other particles that are in constant flux. It is a cauldron of chaos." "Something new? Could we be seeing the testing of a new Federation weapon?" Karchek growled and squinted at the viewer. "And what of the other ship whose distress call they answered?" SanÕdras looked down at her own readings and her quick mind began to put the pieces together. ÒIf the Federation has such a weapon would they use it to take the empire to another dimension, or time? The strategic uses would beÉ devastating.Ó Karchek grunted as he placed his chin on his fist. "The Empire is far too large to do so but Qo'nosÉ", his eyes then opened a fraction wider. For such a vortex to be created to swallow a homeworld that controlled a galactic civilization! "... think not only of the chaos but the power vacuum it would cause." His voice had dwindled to a rumble at the end. He jumped to his feet and began pacing about the bridge as his thoughts went awhirl. "I do not see this other ship hOd. If it is there then the interference is hiding it." Kha'meN'tA threw piercing glances at San'dras back, he would not forget her attempt to humiliate him here. One day she would die by his hand. "I recommend we move close enough to pierce the interference." Why have you not already done so?" Karchek roared as he spun toward him. "Alter course but reduce speed and tune the scanners to maximum efficiency." He then rounded on his tactical officer. "Warm up the disruptors and prepare the shields and torpedoes. Prepare for battle, before this day is done we will know their secrets." The pitch of the low hum that permeated the atmosphere of the command center of the ship changed slightly as the course was altered and it accelerated. He then resumed pacing as his thoughts returned to the matter at hand. "This Rhyne might have been testing the weapon and become caught in its effects. This area of space would be strategically perfect for such a test. Far from Federation space in the territory of a former enemy and far enough away from our own border we would not see it. If we are correct then it is good we intercepted their communication and investigated. The Chancellor will reward us for it and our honor will be greatly increased." To a Klingon warrior honor was everything. He spun and returned to the command chair then seated himself with alacrity. "Should I send a communication to the others hOd?" "Yes. Tell them they must hurry or we will take all the glory for ourselves." He guffawed as he settled back into the chair. "San'dras what do you think our reward will be?" His eyes glinted. "I plan to make the tale last for 3 days and drink an ocean of bloodwine." SanÕdras grunted, ÒGlory and honor, what more could a Klingon ask for? A seat on the council? You are no diplomat hOd, you are a warrior. You should be rewarded with a post that will put us into battle.Ó He roared with laughter. "Very true!" After speaking he stood and stalked to his left, coming to a stop beside Kha'meN'tA. "Has there been any change?" "Yes. We will arrive shortly. The scanners are picking up something." He leaned close to the monitor for his station. "Ghay'Cha!. This cannot be correct!" "What?" Karcheck had been turned toward the forward viewer. "Look hOd at this power signature." Karchek loomed over him and he gave a start at the reading. "On'iTsOnii?" "It is their power level. y'taYnnaN Karcheck was stunned momentarily but rallied back with a snarl. "The tale will be four days in the telling!" While they are mired in the gAr'shAk we strike! But I cannot destroy that ship, it must be salvaged. San'dras signal it." Ò'oSrIq, hOd,Ó SanÕdras replied and sent out the orders. ÒqaD'a' jey jahg Hutluh HuH bo. A warriorÕs challenge.Ó "How long till weapons lock?" "Almost there hOd. Qa'pla!" The viewscreen activated as the whorls and eddies of interference subsided, as though the Maelstrom had intervened and space itself gathered round to bear witness to what was to follow. Karchek turned with a grim smile to the viewscreen as the Captain of the Illuminar was framed at its center. His lips turned back with a snarl as he issued his challenge. ÒtlhIngan maH,Ó SanÕdras cried out. ÒNow you will see what it is to be a warrior, Kha'meN'tA,Ó she said turning to the Klingon she had struck. ÒTo face an enemy of such awesome power rather than dreaming of stabbing me in the back, or killing me in my sleep.Ó She wanted to make sure he knew she had seen his glare. And now, if she mysteriously died, everyone would know it was some cowardice act of his. It was a dangerous game, as he could challenge her, but that was the risk she ran every day. Suddenly she laughed at the awkward look on his face and knew no such open challenge would come. ÒHeghluÕmeH QaQ jajvam Ò she said at the screen. Not today, not everÉ. (Reply: Illuminar communications) (Posted by Charles G- Karchek And Al Muir- San'dras) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne Ð Deck 1- Bridge Ð SFI - Michael Weston - 0025) Weston had made himself comfortable at the now cleared Ops station. Out of sheer boredom, he had continued to play around with the power supply they had available until the viewscreen blinked. Suddenly he became interested in what he was doing and began to work more diligently. As he rerouted power cells through the bridge the screen flashed again, then held on to a static-filled image of what was in front of them. Which was the Illuminar. Just seeing the ship gave him a little more confidence... and courage. But he still couldn't get past that feeling that he was being watched. "View screen's up," he said offhandedly. "And from what I can tell, they've done something in engineering to get short-range sensors (reply any) Then a staticy message came over their comm badges. =^=Shuttle Saratoga to away teams. We have set up transmitters in the shuttlebay on deck 13. Respond, please. What is your status?=^= He looked around the bridge and it didn't look like anyone else had heard it. He wondered if he was going crazy. Then he wondered if the others heard it and weren't responding in case they thought everyone else would think they'd lost their minds. The whole thing was making him dizzy. Finally, he responded. "Weston here, we hear you. The bridge team is working on getting access to the command codes, and getting systems running to access the data we need. We're all okay, despite the fact that this place is freaking us all out." =^=Roger that Mr. Weston. We are part of a medical evac team. Not sure where the rest of the shuttles are, but be prepared to leave as soon as you can.=^= ÒWeÕll keep you apprised,Ó Weston said. Then he turned to the group. ÒOkay people, weÕve got to get what we need and get the hell out of here.Ó (reply Verin, Lee, Matrix, any) Michael had to admit that he was getting a little worried about Verin. SheÕd been quiet the whole trip. A little too quiet. He tapped his comm badge. ÒWeston to Gregory, update your status.Ó (reply Gregory, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory 2 - 0030) Dieter was busy working on updating the systems and had about to call the Scott Matrix on the bridge to see what he was reading up there when his Com badge chimed =^= Weston to Gregory, update your status =^= Gregory frowned, what the hell was Weston doing asking for status. "Gregory here. Is commander Verin around?" He asked sweetly. (reply Weston) "Well then, when she is ready to take my report, I'll speak to her. Until then, leave the channels open. Gregory out." Turning around, "Mr. Taylor, status of our shields." (Reply Weston) (posted by Tim) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal - 0035) Sekal folded his arms as the Klingon Commander wavered into crisp distinction on the screen. Slight distortions rippled through the image of the other ship's Bridge due to the interference that remained to communications in the area. He glanced toward Quinna and nodded, noting that she was using the opportunity to contact the Rhyne. Whether the transporters would be functional was another matter entirely. (Reply: Quinna.) =^= You are the Captain? =^= His eyes returned to the figure. "Yes. Captain Sekal of the Federation Starship USS Illuminar. What is your purpose here?" The Klingon looked disgusted for an instant then spat. =^= I am Commander Kar'chek of the IKS Da'Kar I give you one opportunity to surrender your ship before I take it from you Captain Sekal. Surrender now or die! =^= A green haze appeared in the Vulcan's vision prior to him rising slowly from the command chair due to the unexpected ultimatum. "The Federation and the Empire are in a state of peaceful relations, Commander. I demand to know the grounds upon which you threaten my vessel." He could feel his blood beginning to boil beneath the surface, had he time he could have controlled it but the Klingon bored in relentlessly. =^= On the grounds that your ship's secrets will belong to the Klingon Empire. What is your answer? =^= Sekal cocked his head with exaggerated slowness and crooked an eyebrow at the Klingon's challenge. His left shoulder dipped as he turned slightly to look about then returned his attention to the viewscreen. "Commander I have only one answer." He paused as the Klingon leaned forward expectantly. "If you attack my ship I will send both yourself and your crew screaming to Sto-Voh-Kor. Whether in glory or despair I leave to you. quvHaÕ Hegh SoH vIneH (I wish you a dishonorable death). The Klingon Commander howled in rage and cut the communication. He couldn't keep all of the venom out of his voice as he hit red alert and the klaxon sounded. "Shields up, ready weapons." (Reply: All) A red steak raced through the aether toward Illuminar, the explosion as it hit the shields jarred the ship but the enhanced shields minimized the damage to the saucer section. "Return fire." (Reply: All) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 12 - Security Operations Center - SecO - PO1 Steven Hammons - 0039) It had been a long day and watches had been extended to midnight due to operations on the Rhyne. Steven had been sitting at a desk in one of the offices finishing up a report and was ready to knock off for the evening. He planned on getting some shuteye snuggled against his wife. Some things however are just not meant to be. The lighting in the center began flashing red followed by the alert claxon. Steven jumped up from the desk and dashed out into the main concourse. Other security was already beginning to gather around the central hub including Carol Lannis who began pulling up reports from around the ship, most notably the bridge. The ship rocked a bit from enemy fire which told them all they needed to know about what was going on, still they awaited orders. "Listen up!" Rather than repeat herself Carol opened the security only comm. "Illuminar is under attack. Everyone to your assigned stations, prepare to repel boarders. Repeat, anti-boarding action is in effect. Draw equipment from the armory and take your stations. Boyles and Emery to the torpedo magazine to man that post. You have five minutes people, move it!" Hammons was already on the move, the armory had been opened remotely. Inside the "Dark Knight" awaited him, it had everything he needed except for a telescoping rod which he had on his person. He maintained the suit and kept it charged. His handprint and biosign opened the locker and he stepped aside as it was pushed out. It had barely stopped when he slapped the seal and it opened. Muscling into it and topping it with the helmet as it sealed he fired it up. "Out of my way!" He growled to the others who had crowded in and they stepped aside. Steven burst out of the armory and was on his way to main engineering to man his post within three minutes. (Reply: None yet) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 00.40) The Klingon ship fired their disruptors at the Illuminar. The Illuminar was rocked a bit but the enhanced shields held nicely. She went to one of the tactical stations behind the command area. She scanned the Klingon ship for any weakness to better target their return fire. There is a small area near the Klingon ship's exhaust that would be the optimal spot to hit. She was concerned with how Captain Sekal is controlling his emotions but she couldn't do anything about that now. She leaned over to T'Mur to relay her findings. "The scan shows a spot near the exhaust to be the optimal area to attack. Direct the phaser and torpedoes there." (Reply T'Mur, Sekal, Any) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SecO - Ensign Galk, Son of Jos of the House of Kor - 0041) The tall, burly Klingon warrior showed his teeth and snarled as the Captain spoke with the Klingon Commander, of his people but not of his house and without honor. The Commander was itching for a fight, eager to gain glory to the exclusion of all else. Klingons and the Federation had been at odds for generations, finally becoming allies when necessary and existing in an uneasy peace for decades. Attacking an ally or one under terms of peace, there was no honor in it. He gave a rumbling laugh at the CO's insult which caused Kar'shek to end the communication in rage. The ship sprang into action at the CO's command, executing their duties like a well oiled machine. Galk was here as security detail for the Bridge and today was an exhilarating day to be alive! As shots were fired he rumbled from his position near the turbolifts. "Duras! I know of Kar'shek. They are little changed though they have been earning the Chancellor's favor for being his Grint hounds hunting in Romulan space. He seeks to curry favor with the Chancellor by bringing the Illuminar to Qo'nos as prize." "He will not be successful, I will do what is necessary to ensure it." Sekal's voice was emphatic. Galk rumbled in assent knowing the Captain's intent. If necessary he would order the ship to self destruct rather than have it fall into the hands of enemies. "But that will not be necessary. Illuminar is more than a match for any two ships of the Klingon Empire save for perhaps their newest and most powerful." Galk nodded silently. He was no member of the technical staff aboard but he was aware of this ship's capabilities. As for its CO? He gave a pleased chuckle. The Captain was not himself certainly, on edge and barely under control at times. He would have to be watched carefully and Galk was one of the very few aboard including Hercules Devers and perhaps T'Mur who could match him physically were he to lose control and have to be restrained. But at this moment the Vulcan could almost be mistaken for a Klingon. What better way to die than in battle under such a commander? "No, he will not succeed and his end will be glorious." (Reply: Any) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - 3/O CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice 0042) Quinna was beginning to get used to the bridge. She still had sickbay on her mind but she could not control what was going on in there. She kept her eyes on Sekal and the view screen. Noting the distortion meant a cloaked ship but she had no way of telling friends or foes. That is until they communicated. Quinna sprang into action. Amazing how communications seemed to open up. Quinna lowered her voice so that it would not be a part of the conversation Sekal was having with the Klingons. =^= Illuminar to away teams. You are to evacuate the Rhyne. Head to the shuttles. =^= Quinna conveyed. (Reply away teams) Quinna still had the communications open when the Illuminar went into Red Alert. The ship was hit but with no substantial damage and no casualties. Quinna spun to see Ariel spring into action. (Reply any on Bridge or away team since Quinna left the comm open) (Posted by Kris) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory 1 - 0044) =^= Illuminar to away teams. You are to evacuate the Rhyne. Head to the shuttles. =^= Quinna called over the coms. Gregory tapped his COM badge. "Gregory here. Why? Whats going on?" he asked (Solice) He shook his head at the answer. Klingons! Here! Attacking the Illuminar. Tapping his COM badge again, "Gregory to Rhyne. Belay the shuttle order," he called before a second tap, "Quinna, makes no sense adding small craft to the combat area. We'll support you from here." (Solice) Turning to Taylor, "Get up to the Battle Module, see what torpedo's we have left." He tapped his badge again, "P'Rah, find the nearest transporter and get to the battle module and assist Mr. Taylor." =^= Aye, Sir =^= the Caitain replied. (Taylor IYW) Gregory finally tapped his badge again, "Gregory to Commander Verin. What are your orders Ma'am?" (Verin) (Replies Quinnam Taylor, Verin) (Posted by Tim) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>(((USS Rhyne Ð Bridge Ð Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee - 00.45) ÒThe IlluminarÕs being attacked!Ó said Lee alarmingly as he stared on the view screen, of the Klingon ship firing their disrupters at the Illuminar. He went back to the weapons console. ÒCommanderÓ? said Lee, looking at Commander Williams-Verin ÒShould we not respond?Ó (reply) ÒInstruments shows the phaser banks are operating at 60%Ó remarked Lee as he studied the control panel, (reply) (posted by John) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0045) TÕMurÕs mind was fuzzy. She was having trouble focusing. The image of Sienna dying haunted her. But this was different. She was sure there was a problem with her mate. Whatever had been shielding their connection was starting to show cracks, and snippets of Sienna was coming through, but not enough to get a clear image. "Shields up, ready weapons." The captainÕs voice brought her attention back to the Illuminar andTÕMurÕs hands dances over the controls, ÒShields at full, phasers are charged,Ó she replied. ÒThereÕs a full battery of torpedoes loaded and ready.Ó ? The ship shook as it was struck by the Klingon disrupters, but a quick check show the shields to continue to hold at full power. ? "Return fire,Ó Sekal ordered. TÕMur brought the phasers to target the KlingonÕs shield generators and fired. ÒDirect hit,Ó TÕMur reported. ÒSensors show minor damage to their shields. Our shields are holding.Ó Suddenly Trei leaned over and said, "The scan shows a spot near the exhaust to be the optimal area to attack. Direct the phaser and torpedoes there." TÕMur sighed, feeling an impatience rise in her that was uncharacteristic. She held her breath for a moment. ÒThank you Lieutenant. I am aware of the shortcomings of the Klingon warship. However, their recent technological advancements through their conquests of the old Romulan empire have shown that they have rectified that flaw. However, if e are in a position I will take your suggestion under advisement.Ó The Klingon attack persisted. TÕMur sent commands to the conn. ÒEvasive maneuver bravo gamma 4.Ó As the ship came round it inverted on its Z access, cause the Klingon weapons to miss while opening a clear shot to its belly. She released a round of phaser fire and a volley of torpedoes. They exploded spectacularly on the battle cruiserÕs underside, lighting up its shield configuration. She turned to Trei as a thought came to her, ÒKeep watching those exhaust trails, in case they decide to cloak.Ó (reply Trei, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 4 -Medical Center - MO Dr. Kyllee Stev - 0046) The open comm lines were a bit distracting. TheyÕd spent so long with no communications, the sudden intensity was a little over whelming. =^= Illuminar to away teams. You are to evacuate the Rhyne. Head to the shuttles. =^= The conversation between Solice and Gregory gave Stev all the information he needed. Klingons. Klingons? Klingons! =^=Quinna, makes no sense adding small craft to the combat area. We'll support you from here.=^= Kyllee had to agree with Gregory, that throwing a shuttle into a battle zone was ill advised. But his estimation of their ability to help was veryÉ optimistic. The results of the tests heÕd been running on PÕRah since heÕd removed his environmental suit and the rest of them in sickbay, including Fred Mertz, showed that the suits were doing them no good. ÒKyllee to Verin and Gregory, IÕve just completed several tests of ourselves and Mr. Mertz and I can assure you that these environmental suits are not necessary. We are all being affected by whatever is affecting the ship, even with them on. I do not recommend them as an environmental necessity.Ó (reply any) He looked at Alyl, and Dever and shrugged. He began to removed his own suit. ÒWhateverÕs affecting us, these arenÕt making a difference.Ó (reply Alyl, Dever, PÕRah, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illiminar -- Bridge Deck 1 -- 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice - 0047) =^= Illuminar to away teams. You are to evacuate the Rhyne. Head to the shuttles. =^= Quinna called over the coms. Gregory tapped his COM badge. "Gregory here. Why? What's going on?" he asked. =^= Captain Sekal has ordered your return to the ship.=^= Suddenly the federation ally was attacking the Illuminar. Quinna turned back to hear Dieter in her ear. "Quinna, makes no sense adding small craft to the combat area. We'll support you from here." =^= No kidding, we were just fired upon. We will take the support, Stand by.=^= (Reply IYW) (Posted by Kris B) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 4 -Medical Center - CSO Lieutenant (jg) Jaton Alyl, Dr. Kyllee Stev, Security PO3 PÕRah, PO3 Hercules Devers - 0047) ÒKyllee to Verin and Gregory, IÕve just completed several tests of ourselves and Mr. Mertz and I can assure you that these environmental suits are not necessary. We are all being affected by whatever is affecting the ship, even with them on. I do not recommend them as an environmental necessity.Ó Jaton chortled. ÒYou first.Ó He looked at Alyl, and Dever and shrugged. He began to remove his own suit. ÒWhateverÕs affecting us, these arenÕt making a difference.Ó Jaton stood. ÒAs they say on Earth, in for a penny in for a pound.Ó He started stripping out of his suit as well. As he took his helmet off, he sniffed the air. ÒOof,Ó he exclaimed. ÒMy tricorder wasnÕt lying! That air is stale.Ó Devers had stripped out of his suit and checked his equipment. Over their COM badges came the order, =^=Verin to Illuminar Away Teams, I want everyone to congregate in the battle module, Level B.=^= Devers and PÕRah looked at each other and the two officers. ÒOrders Sirs?Ó Devers asked Jaton looked over at Stev. ÒI mean unless you want me to assume command againÉÓ Kylle rolled his eyes at the statement. He really didnÕt want this to be a manhood measuring contest. ÒLook Lieutenant, this doesnÕt have to be a competition. Clearly, now that communication has been restored, Commander Verin and Lt. Commander Gregory are in command. If you feel more comfortable joining them in the battle module, feel free to go. I do my best work here.Ó He looked at Mertz noting he was not able to make that journey yet, ÒI do not believe Mr. Mertz is prepared to travel just yet. I will explain to the commander. I would appreciate it if one of you would stay with us,Ó he said to PÕRah and Dever. The other should probably accompany Lieutenant Alyl to the battle center.Ó Jaton nodded. ÒRight, if there are no objections, Dever, youÕre with me. PÕRah, you stay here to make sure Stev and Mertz are okay. As soon as the transporters are restored, weÕll beam you away.Ó ÒFair enough,Ó Stev said, and went back to his work. He tapped his comm badge as Alyl and PÕRah left. ÒKyllee to Commander Verin,Ó he reported, ÒLieutenant Alyl is returning with Mr. PÕRah. We have a survivor here and I am not comfortable moving him just yet. We can join you when we are able. IÕll hang on to Mr. Dever for protection.Ó (reply Verin) The two security officers looked at each and shrugged. PÕRah headed over to the science officer. ÒLetÕs go, Sir,Ó he said, his phaser rifle in his hand. Jaton shrugged. He wasnÕt exactly thrilled to be stuck with PÕRah after that incident with the vole, but heÕd find some way to make the best of the situation. ÒVery well. Move out.Ó He stood and gestured towards the door. ÒAfter you.Ó ÒVery good sir,Ó the Caitain replied and led the way out of sickbay. Devers walked over to the Doctor, ÒHow can I help you, Sir?Ó Kyllee was still feeling the irritation from Alyl, and the twinge of panic of someone watching them,ÓI just need someone to watch my back while I work on getting Mr. Mertz into some kind of condition to get out of here, and off this ship.Ó ÒCopy that, Doc,Ó Devers replied, ÒWatching your back Sir.Ó Stev returned his attention to his patient, who seemed to be considerably less agitated now. As he worked he talked. ÒSo tell me Mr. Mertz, what was your position on this ship?Ó Fred blinked as if he were working hard to remember, then said, ÒComputer Specialist, I was part of the original team that put the computer core on this ship, and did most of the programming.Ó ÒThatÕs incredible,Ó Kyllee said honestly. ÒIÕm lucky to be able to make the computers in sickbay give me the reports theyÕre programmed to give. I think they hate me.Ó Mertz chuckled, ÒFunny, I used to think that computers werenÕt capable of emotions, like hate. IÕm not so sure now.Ó ÒReally?Ó the doctor said, ÒthatÕs an interesting admission. What would have changed your mind?Ó ÒThe ship,Ó Mertz said, Òit seems to have grown a life of its own. HavenÕt you noticed, everything is trying to kill us? (reply any) (posted by Al Muir, Spencer and Tim B) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ( IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Commander Kar'chek- 0048) Kar'chek was boiling still over the insult from the Vulcan. To see one as an adversary had been disappointing at the beginning... until he had with typical Vulcan precision wished him a dishonorable death with a guarantee of victory. It had not at all been what he had expected. To be precise it had shocked and enraged him. "Disruptors firing." Kar'chek grunted an acknowledgement and walked to the tactical station expecting a palpable hit. Once again he was surprised. "hOd there was no appreciable damage." "What?" His voice was incredulous. "Their shields shrugged it off as though it were nothing." "?OniL!IjhaYhoj." (What? Impossible!) "ji'ganNact'O" (They are firing) "The Da'kar rocked as energy slammed into its shields. A whining groan arose from the vibrations. "hOd our shields! Port forward down 23%!" He throttled the desire to pull his sidearm and burn down the tactical officer. "Fire torpedoes and follow with disruptors." The thump of emerging torpedoes came in rapid succession followed by another searing orb of energy that streaked toward the Illuminar. The Da'kar then swept to starboard in an evasive maneuver and to line up for the following shots. Kar'chek turned to the main viewer to see what effect they would have. As he did so the incongruity of the situation struck him. The profile was like that of an old Starfleet design, an Intrepid class science vessel. Hardly a fighting ship and more suited to monitoring neutron stars. That it could give such a punishing blow was unthinkable. Another blast from its phasers struck the Da'kar just before the torpedoes impacted and his ship reeled from the blow. Kar'chek's attention was snatched away by a damage report. "Forward shields down 42 percent. Cloak is down." He howled. "Get it back up! What damage to the Federation ship?" (Reply: San'dras) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0048) =^= Kyllee to Verin and Gregory. IÕve just completed several tests of ourselves and Mr. Mertz and I can assure you that these environmental suits are not necessary. We are all being affected by whatever is affecting the ship, even with them on. I do not recommend them as an environmental necessity. =^= Gregory smiled, "Good work Doctor!" he replied. Shedding his suit, he rolled his neck, "Ok, this is more like it." "Scanners?" he called out The Android replied, "Short range sensors are online, long range will take more time. I would not recommend warp at the present time." Gregory nodded. Things were starting to look up. Once he had a report from Ensign Taylor, he'd know how much they could help out the Illuminar, not that she needed the Rhyne's help, and with a skeleton crew, it would be tough, but if they didn't try, the ship was a sitting duck. He slammed the pool and suddenly three green lights came on. "Damn," he said. "Taylor was right." he chuckled. Tapping his COMM badge, "Medic Mulder, Who's the shuttle pilot?" (Reply Mulder) Nodding at the response, "Lieutenant Corday, can you pilot a ship of the line?" (Reply Snoopy) "Good, take one of the medics and make your way to the bridge post haste. I'll let 'em know you're coming. Oh, and send that engineer to me in main engineering." (reply Snoopy) "We might just make it, Outrider. Thinks are looking up." "As you say, Sir," the android replied. (Reply Mulder, Snoopy) (Posted by Tim) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne Ð Bridge Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee Ð 0050) Upon hearing the evacuation order, Chief Lee quickly closed down the weapon systems console, picked up his phaser rifle and made his way over to the entrance of the bridge. He looked into the passageway for any possible hostiles. Then wave his hand to the others ÒClear.Ó Said Lee as he stared at the others. (reply any) (posted by John) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 14 - Shuttle Bay - Pilot- Lt. Arthur ÔSnoopyÕ Corday, Medics Mulder and Scully and EO Angus McGuyver - 0050) Mulder and Scully checked McGuyver out as he told his story of being chased by the spider creatures. They noted the irregular brain chemistry in the amygdala and frowned at each other. He was still having trouble accepting that it wasnÕt real. =^=Medic Mulder, Who's the shuttle pilot?=^= Mulder tapped his comm badge, ÒThe pilot, Lt. Commander? That would be Snoopy, sir. Lt. Corday.Ó =^=Lieutenant Corday, can you pilot a ship of the line?=^= Arthur couldnÕt help but chuckle, until he realized the man was serious. ÒSir? IÕm cleared to fly most starships. The Akita class is a bitÉ well, archaic, but if it moves I can fly it.Ó =^=Good, take one of the medics and make your way to the bridge post haste. I'll let 'em know you're coming. Oh, and send that engineer to me in main engineering.=^= Arthur looked with interest at the others and nodded at Scully. ÒRoger that Commander. WeÕre on our way.Ó Then he looked at Mulder and McGuyver, ÒAre you okay to go back out there?Ó McGuyver shrugged, ÒDo I have a choice?Ó He looked at Mulder questioningly. ÒWell, heÕs healthy enough, physically. IÕve never seen brain activity like this, but on its own it wonÕt kill him.Ó ÒKeep a close eye on him,Ó Corday said. ÒYou got it Ò Mulder said. ÒAnd donÕt take any chances. I donÕt want you to make any side adventures. Straight to main engineering.Ó Mulder saluted, ÒYes dad.Ó Arthur rolled his eyes, ÒGet out of here.Ó Once they left Corday looked at Scully and smiled, ÒWeÕve got a bit of climb ahead of us. You ready.Ó Scully returned the smile, ÒRace you to the bridge.Ó (reply none, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 00.50) The illuminar took evasive action avoiding being hit. The Klingon ship's movement left it open for attack which the illuminar found with direct hits. The Klingon ship lost its cloak and was trying to restore it. T'Mur leaned over and told her to watch for exhaust emissions as they try to cloak again. She understood this and scanned for vulnerable points to hit. "Understood. I will check for areas to hit. " (Reply T'Mur) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne Ð Deck 1- Bridge Ð SFI - Michael Weston - 0051) Weston watched Commander Verin very carefully, and he was liking shat he was seeing. She seemed to drift off, as if she were daydreaming. He never pictured her as the daydreaming type. It was as though her mind had left her body for a few moments. When she focused again she tried to stand up, but her knees buckled beneath her. As he moved towards her, she managed to get back to her feet. "Something happened- what was it?" she asked, her voice a little ctrained. "You seemed to...," Michael said, "the old phrase was, 'space out', for a few minutes. Are you okay?" She gave him a look that said mind your own damn business, and Weston happily obliged her, and left her to do her command stuff. Still, he didn't move too far away. He smiled when he heard Quinna's voice over the comms, =^=Illuminar to away teams. You are to evacuate the Rhyne. Head to the shuttles.=^= =^=Gregory to Rhyne. Belay the shuttle order. Quinna, that makes no sense adding small craft to the combat area. We'll support you from here.=^= Weston smiled. As much as the man disliked Weston, Michael had to admit he knew how to take control of a situation. One day they may have to kill each other, but not today. "Verin to Illuminar Away Teams," the Commander called out, "I want everyone to congregate in the battle module, Level B. Matrix, divert all available power to shield that specific area. It's near a shuttle bay, an intra-ship transporter and life rescue pods. I want every bit of power we can muster to make a safe place. Move it people." There was suddenly a scramble of activity. Weston accessed the power alotment to make sure that battle module could and was powered up before they headed that way. He didn't want to have to start from scratch once they got there. Then he headed for the turbo lift, thankful that there was only four of them. But he was certain that number would increase very soon. (reply any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne Ð Deck 1- Bridge Ð EO Ð Ensign Scott Matrix - 0053) Scott was standing at the rear of the bridge observing the situation. He wasnÕt sure what he was experiencing, but it wasnÕt normal or expected. His tricorder didnÕt register any unusual toxins in the air nor any harmful radiation. It did however note a discrepancy in normal space-time. Of that he wasnÕt sure if it was an anomaly or his inexperience. Weston and Verin appeared to be involved in their own mental orchestra, likely none of his business. Instead he returned to his station and attempted to keep up with the situation. =^=Illuminar to away teams. You are to evacuate the Rhyne. Head to the shuttles.=^= =^=Gregory to Rhyne. Belay the shuttle order. Quinna, that makes no sense adding small craft to the combat area. We'll support you from here.=^= "Verin to Illuminar Away Teams, I want everyone to congregate in the battle module, Level B. Matrix, divert all available power to shield that specific area. It's near a shuttle bay, an intra-ship transporter and life rescue pods. I want every bit of power we can muster to make a safe place. Move it people." ÒAye!Ó offered Scott. He tapped the console and augmented the power feed as ordered. ÒAll available power divertedÉthatÕs all I can do from here.Ó With that Scott headed out with the rest of the bridge crew. (Reply Verin, Weston, none, any) (Posted by Steve) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 13 - Shuttle Bay - Medic Fox Mulder and EO Angus McGuyver - 0053) Mulder and McGuyver hadnÕt bothered with the turbo lift. They found the access to the crawlways and planned to climb their way up to Main Engineering. But as Mulder began to put his head through to hatch McGuyver heard a sound. It was like a child, crying. He reached out and touch MulderÕs leg. ÒHang on a second lad, I hear something,Ó McGuyver said as he pulled back from the medic. ÒIs that a kid?Ó Mulder asked. McGuyver was a little tentative, keeping an eye out for the spider creatures, as he stepped around a corner to find a man in an environmental suit, huddled in a corner, quivering. He drew his phaser and nodded for Mulder to go check him out. The medic moved quickly, kneeling beside man, and scanned him with his tricorder. ÒHe buddy, itÕs okay,Ó Mulder tried to reassure the weapons figure. ÒWhatÕs your name?Ó His first reaction was one of horror, he quickly noticed who it was and reached up to grab onto Mulder. ÒMulder?! ItÕs me, Klinger.Ó ÒKlinger,Ó Mulder sounded shocked. ÒWhat are you doing down here?Ó ÒWe came to find a shuttle,Ó Klinger managed to pull himself together slightly, ÒandÉ and É theyÕre dead. TheyÕre both dead.Ó ÒWhoÕs dead?Ó Mulder asked. ÒIf ye donÕt mind,Ó McGuyver interrupted, Òcan we save this reunion till we get to engineering.Ó Mulder nodded, ÒYouÕre right. WeÕve got a climb ahead of us Klinger. Can you move?Ó ÒYeah,Ó Klinger replied, Òbut IÕve got a horrible confession to make.Ó Both men looked at Klinger oddly, ÒOut with it man,Ó McGuyver was running low on patience. Klinger looked at his feet, ÒIÕve made a mess in my environmental suit.Ó Mulder sighed, ÒThe suits arenÕt helping, letÕs get it off and we can go.Ó He reached out and helped off with the helmet. The smell of the vomit wafted out from the hole. ÒSweet holyÉÓ McGuyver exclaimed. ÒHow much did you puke?Ó As they peeled of the suit they noticed what he was wearing. ÒKlinger, are you aware thatÕs a female uniform?Ó Mulder asked. My uniform was, umm, ruined and this was all I could find,Ó Klinger admitted. ÒWell this oneÕs not much better,Ó Mulder said, noting the puddle of regurgitation plopping onto the deck. ÒGet that off too.Ó Soon Klinger was down to his skivvies. They found a set of overalls over a crate and Klingon put it on quickly. Leading him to the access hatch McGuyver led the climb. Klinger followed and Mulder brought up the rear. As the medic pulled himself in he could swear he felt something grab at his leg. He rushed up the ladder, calling up, ÒA little faster, something weird is down here.Ó >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 14 - Shuttle Bay - Pilot- Lt. Arthur ÔSnoopyÕ Corday, Medic Dana Scully and Ensign Andy Taylor - 0054) It was eleven levels to the bridge. Arthur was probably up for the climb, and Scully looked fairly athletic, but it became a matter of time. They were going to have to trust that the turbo lift was going to have power to get them to the bridge. The door opened as they approached it. ÒBridge,Ó Corday called to the control panel. It beeped in response and the lift started to move. Both Scully and Corday breathed sighs of relief. Then the lift suddenly slowed down and stopped and their hearts sank. When it stopped the door opened and there was a man in a security uniform standing their. ÒBridge?Ó he asked. ÒUh, yeah,Ó Arthur replied. ÒThey all transferred to the battle module,Ó Taylor said. ÒIÕm Andy Taylor.Ó Corday nodded, ÒArthur, Corday, they call me Snoopy.Ó ÒSnoopy?Ó Taylor looked quizzically. ÒLong story,Ó Arthur said. ÒThis is Medic Dana Scully.Ó ÒMaÕam,Ó Andy smiled and moved in between the two. Corday tapped to control panel, ÒChange destination to battle module, Deck A.Ó The computer chirped and the turbo lift shot off again. (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Module Operations - Pilot- Lt. Arthur ÔSnoopyÕ Corday, Medic Dana Scully, Ensign Andy Taylor - 0100) The turbo lift door opened and the trio exited to find a small crew of people there already. Corday picked out the Commander from the crow and presented himself to her. ÒLt. Arthur Corday, maÕam,Ó he said sharply, and stepped to the side. ÒMay I present Medic Dana Scully and Ensign Andy Taylor.Ó Taylor nodded at the commander, ÒCompliments of Lt Commander Gregory.Ó (reply Verin) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - Medic Fox Mulder, Max Klinger and EO Angus McGuyver - 0056) By the time they reached the hatch on deck 11 everybodyÕs legs were burning from the lactic acidosis build up. Mulder kept looking down but nothing was following them. They managed to make their way into Main Engineering before they collapsed from fatigues. McGuyver managed to get his breath under control and stand up. ÒLt. Commander Gregory? Engineer Angus McGuyver, reporting. Looks like we managed to pick up one of your strays along the way.Ó McGuyver indicated towards Klinger. ÒHow can I help?Ó (reply Gregory) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice - 0057) Fight or flight? It frightened Quinna that she was on the Bridge and not Sickbay. She thrived on being a Doctor. Those wounds she could fix. It frightened her that while they were under attack by the Klingons, those on the Rhyne were stuck and defenseless. There were still no answers on what went wrong over there. It was easy to back out of the bridge and go back to sickbay. Quinna sat up straight. ÒWhat about the neck?Ó Quinna asked. (Reply Sekal, Trei, TÕMur, T'shalaith) ÒThe Bridge of that ship is connected with a small tether (VorÕcha Class, 2022),Ó Quinna started. ÒWhat if we target the area and cut the head of the bird off, in a manner of speaking.Ó (Reply Sekal, Trei, TÕMur, T'shalaith) It is a VorÕcha class ship. It has a secondary hull made of duranium alloy (VorÕcha Class, 2022). So their weakest part would be the bridge tether and would also cause the least casualties. (Reply Sekal, Trei, TÕMur, T'shalaith) (Posted by Kris B) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0057) ÒReport.Ó TÕMur checked her board, ÒWe have sustained no discernible damage. Shields holding at 92 percent. The Klingon vessel. Has received notable strikes reducing their shield efficiency to 42 percent. There is a sizable energy fluctuation in their engineering area, and as they have not employees their cloaking device I would assume that would be the source.Ó ÒWhat about the neck?Ó Solice suggested. ÒThe neck?Ó TÕMur did not quite understand the reference. ÒThe bridge of that ship is connected with a small tether. What if we target the are and cut the head of the bird off, in a manner of speaking.Ó TÕMur was impressed. She didnÕt realize that Quinna had such a working knowledge of Klingon war ships. ÒThat is an excellent suggestion,Ó TÕMur said, ÒLt. Commander.Ó It was the first time she had used that title for Quinna. ÒJust so you are aware, these VorÕcha class ships have a much larger ÒneckÓ than the older Klingon vessels. I have been attempting to strike at the power sources. I can change the parameters of our attack.Ó There was another shudder from the ship as the Klingon ship struck with their own torpedoes, followed by disrupter fire. TÕMur recognized the strategy. Weaken the shields with torpedos enough, and then make a disruptive strike at the same spot to try and find a weakness in the shielding. However, the new shields on the Illuminar were a decent match for their current strategy. However, she could see a different outcome with a significant change to their paradigm. ÒMr. Montero,Ó she called out, I will need a better angle,Ó the Vulcan called out. ÒWe need to come up from under them. Bring us to 137 mark 8.Ó She readjusted the targeting computer and fired a volley of torpedoes at the base of the VorÕcha class shipÕs Òhead.Ó There was an alert on her sensor panel. TÕMur raised an eyebrow the. Turned to the captain. ÒCaptain, long range sensors have picked up two more Klingon ships approaching.Ó (reply Sekal, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ( IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - yaS waÕdIch - SanÕdras- 0059) ÒWhat damage to the Federation ship?Ó KarÕchek growled. SanÕdras recognized the danger in the hOdÕs voice. She looked at the readings with disbelief. ÒInconceivable,Ó she said, accidentally out loud. ÒThe ship has hardly taken any damage. ItÕs shields at near full strength. There are small areas where I have targeted disrupter fire directly at the impact sight of torpedoes. But it is not enough.Ó ÒyaS waÕdIch, they are targeting the mong DuÕSus,Ó warned the Klingon at the tactical station. ÒPtaQ,Ó SanÕdras growled. ÒgHos tuH (evasive maneuvers)Ó The ship dipped and shuddered as a torpedo struck. Sparks burst out of a panel and warrior at the tactical station went flying across the bridge with a massive burn on his chest. SanÕdras examined the station. Seeing it useless she jumped down to the helm, grabbed the pilot and tosssed him from his seat. ÒquÕvatlh,Ó she muttered, ÒYou are too slow. Mosh to Ah ehpaq.Ó (This battle is not over) She moved her hands over the controls at the war ship moved under her guidance. The yaw of the turn made the structure groan slightly but the next attack from the Federation ship completely missed. (reply none, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.00) The idea of hitting the neck of the bird was a good one but it had to be precise. She worked with T'Mur to be as accurate as possible. She gave the precise target coordinates to T'Mur and gave her the go ahead to execute the strike. "I agree with the action. You have the target coordinates T'Mur. On your order Ma'am" (Reply Quinna, T'Mur) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0100) ÒLt. Commander Gregory? Engineer Angus McGuyver, reporting. Looks like we managed to pick up one of your strays along the way.Ó Gregory nodded to Klinger as the young man continued. "How can I help." "Klinger, Mulder, report to the Tactical Information Center, Deck A of the battle module and assemble with the rest of the crew." "Mr. McGuyver, I need you here, with me and Outrider 1. We need to get this ship operational. We have some control, the warp drive is online, but our sensors are short range only. We need to get shields up and at a minimum I want to see what is out there. First priority is shields." (McGuyver) Gregory tapped his Com badge. "Gregory to Verin. Ma'am, I'm sending two more medics your way. Outrider 1, engineer McGuyver and I are in Engineering and are working to make sure shields are operational. Is Matrix with you?" (Verin) "We have short range scanners, torpedo control, shields are at 50% and we're working on that. We have phasers as well. We're bringing the air scrubbers online. Anything else Ma'am?" (Verin) "Very good, Ma'am." (Reply McGuyver, Verin) (Posted by Tim) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - EO Angus McGuyver - 0102) McGuyverlooked at the 2O as he ordered the medics on their way, without escort. He had to wonder about the wisdom of that, but thatÕs probably why he wasnÕt in a command position. "Mr. McGuyver, I need you here, with me and Outrider 1. We need to get this ship operational. We have some control, the warp drive is online, but our sensors are short range only. We need to get shields up and at a minimum. I want to see what is out there. First priority is shields." McGuyver nodded, and he replied with his heavy brogue. ÒYouÕve got it Commander, shields are priority one.Ó He sat down at the console Taylor had been using and looked at the configuration of the power grid. Suddenly he sat back, threw his hands in the air and yelled, ÒWhat in the bloody blue blazes? Whoever was working on this was idiot.Ó He sat forward again, cracked his knuckles, and leaned in to the screen. Whoever had been attempting to get the shields going hadnÕt done as much damage as was first assumed. He had crossed some lines that should not have been crossed. Suddenly he crawled under the console and pulled of the access hatch to the inner workings and began to look at the iso chips. After a minute of contemplation he began to move the chips into new slots. He would check periodically to see what the changes did. Then the power to the shields suddenly failed. ÒCrappy Martian engineering,Ó he cursed under his breathe. Then he moved two more chips and the power came back on and a song of power relays sang to him. He jumped back to his feet and looked at the monitor. With a smile he tapped a button and was met with the pleasant sound of the shields powering up. ÒLt Commander,Ó he called over his shoulder, Òwe have shields. ThatÕs the good news. The bad news is that the batteries need to be charged from the warp core. IÕd estimate that weÕre at 35 percent.Ó (reply Gregory) ÒNow be honest with me commander,Ó McGuyver said, Òwhat would you rather have, weapons or long range sensors. I canne give you both. At least not for a wee while.Ó (reply Gregory) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ( IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Kar'chek- 0102) "The Kha'jE and i'Jue are near. Two minutes until they engage!" "Order them to target the ship's warp nacelles. Change targeting to those nacelles!" "Yes hOd!" "BaH!" (Fire) The warp nacelles on this class of ship were smaller and closer to the hull which made them a more difficult target to hit and damage. Kar'chek wanted, needed to bring this ship to the homeworld but he was also a realist, if he did nothing the Vulcan would make good on his promise. "The cloak is available." "Ghos!" The warship shimmered and was gone to standard sensors. "Turn us about. So'wi'chu!" This particular class of ship had sensors that were better than standard and a crew that knew how to use them. Still targeting a cloaked vessel was not a simple matter. A spread of quantum torpedoes lashed put from Illuminar, 2 missed, the third detonated in near proximity. The Da'kar rocked hard to starboard. Kar'chek remained on his feet due to a supreme effort and one hand on the chair. "We have lost cloak again! Shields weakening." "Kajunpak't! All emergency power to the shields!" "The others have arrived!" "Quapla'! CHEG- chu-jaj-VAM-jaj-KAK!" "hOd! The other ship!" "Hold until the other ships are well engaged then we will Mak-cha! it. Shielded?" "No hOd, minimal power readings." "Kesh!" It wasn't his target but he would make sure it was defenseless and could not enter the battle, when attention to it could be spared. (Reply: San'dras) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Operations Center - SFI Michael Weston - 0106) The turbo lift slowed and came to a halt. Weston positioned himself between the entrance and center. He looked at the Commander. ÒYou should stay in here until the room is cleared. I vote for Mr. Lee to clear the room.Ó He looked over at Lee playfully, who only frowned back. ÒNo? Perhaps together then.Ó (reply Lee) The two men exited the lift and went down the opposite sides of the Tactical Center until they were both satisfied that they were alone there. Then they made their way back to the lift. ÒWeÕre clear,Ó Weston said. He reached over to a console and brought it to life. With a few buttons the rest of the ÒBattle BridgeÓ woke up. (reply Verin) As the group spread out the turbo lift door opened again. Three people stepped off looking a little lost. A child stepped up to him, ÒLt. Arthur Corday, Commander Verin?Ó Weston laughed, ÒNot likely. Over there.Ó He pointed Verin out in the crowd. ÒAnd your friends?Ó ÒOh yeah, Medic Scully and Ensign Andy Taylor,Ó Corday introduce his companions. He looked the group over and turned to the medic, ÒYou might want to start with checking in with Commander Verin. I believe sheÕs in some kind of distress.Ó Then he turned to Taylor, ÒSecurity? IÕm sure youÕre familiar with Lt. Lee. HeÕs over there.Ó The trio dispersed. Weston watched them and shook his head. ÒWeÕre all gonna die,Ó he said softly to himself. (reply Verin, Lee) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0110) Gregory kept monitoring the power distribution around the ship. He noted the increase power being shunted to the Tactical Information Center. It looked as if the commander and team had made it up there. As he worked over the master systems display table, he felt he was chasing ghosts. As soon as one area of the ship was green, another went amber or red. He listened as McGuyer cursed at the repairs that had been done to the defensive station. ÒLt Commander, we have shields. ThatÕs the good news. The bad news is that the batteries need to be charged from the warp core. IÕd estimate that weÕre at 35 percent.Ó McGuyver called. "Noted, Mr. McGuyver," he called out. "Shields are online, I am shunting power directly to the shields from the warp core. See if that helps," he replied. "Batteries will take too long to charge up. I can try to pull additional power from the impulse generators." Working through the commands, "Shield power at 40% and climbing." ÒNow be honest with me commander,Ó McGuyver said, Òwhat would you rather have, weapons or long range sensors. I canne give you both. At least not for a wee while.Ó "Weapons, Man. Get me phasers," he said. "We can solve the long range problem later." (reply McGuyver) Gregory tapped his COM badge, "Commander Verin, we have shields. Should be full strength shortly. I've got McGuyver working on the phaser arrays now. We only have short-range sensors, but I am tying them into the targeting and battle computer. Mr. Taylor should be with you now, I recommend you put him at tactical. Did Mr. Snoopy make it there?" (reply Verin) "Good. I can give you impulse drive, and up to warp 2 right now till we get the rest of the sensors on-line," he said. (reply Verin) "I'm here Ma'am. Mr. McGuyver, Outrider and myself will keep Engineering up as much as possible. I am diverting power from non-essential systems, but have put the life support on high to clean the air." (reply Verin) (Posted by Tim ) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - EO Angus McGuyver - 0112) "Weapons, man. Get me phasers," Gregory said. "We can solve the long-range problem later." McGuyver shrugged, "You're the boss." The engineer began to pull up the programs for the phasers and started to reroute power around areas of dead gel packs. Those were going to have to be replace, eventually, but what he was doing should work for a short-term solution. After a few minutes he jumped out of his seat and ran to the other end of Main Engineering and pulled a panel from the wall. He dug his arm deep into the bowels of the opening and pulled out a handful of wires. Then he meticulously followed to the wire trails until he found the two he was looking for. He quickly switched the terminals of the wires and ran back to the station he'd been working at. Finally he tapped a few keys, and nothing happened. A string of curses flew from his mouth, and he brought his fists down on the panel in front of him. Suddenly there were a series of beeps, and the hum of power being redirected to the phaser array emitters. With a smile on his lips he swiveled around in his chair. "And that's how it's done," he said triumphantly. "We have phasers. Every third emitter is out, but since this ship will still pack a whallop. And I wouldn't recommend keeping it this way. I'll need to make repairs down the line, but it'll hold together today." (reply Gregory) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Operations Center - Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee - 0115) Lee continued to remain alert as the turbo lifted halted and was about to take point when the doors open but Weston seem to got in the way. Ò ÒYou should stay in here until the room is cleared. I vote for Mr. Lee to clear the room.Ó He spoke to the Commander. Lee was puzzled, why was Weston giving orders. It was annoying at the least and frowned slilently at him ÒNo? Perhaps together then.Ó If Weston wanted to play ÒIÕm the real boss hereÕ then let him, thought Lee. ÒYes, lets. On the count of 3. 1..2..3. GoÓ Lee and Weston rushed into the Tactical Center. Lee with his phaser rifle as he went into the opposite direction of place..alert as always as he scanned the room but there was nobody around. ÒclearÓ called out Lee as he joined Weston to return to the turbolift. He wondered why there was nobody on the ship. Where was everyone The turbolift doors opened again as Lee aimed his phaser rifle. Three people stepped out and introduced themselves As the group spread out the turbo lift door opened again. Three people stepped off looking a little lost and introduced themselves as Lt Arthur Corday, medic Scully and what was Andy Taylor doing here? ÒEnsign TaylorÓ said Lee, who lowed his rifle. ÒWhat are you doing here. ReportÓ (reply) (posted by John) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Operations Center - SO Ensign Andy Taylor - 0116) "Ensign Taylor, what are you doing here?" Lee asked. "Report." "Sir," Taylor began, "I was sent up under Lt. Commander Gregory's orders. We've been working on the weapons systems and shields. When Commander Verin called for everyone to meet up here he sent me on ahead." He looked a the Security Chief almost apologetically, "He has Outrider and an engineer there now. Guess I was just in the way. I tried to protest but he wasn't having any of it. Sooo... what can I do for you here?" (reply Lee) (posted by Al Muir >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck A - Battle Operations Center - Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee - 0120) There was a sense of relief from the Security Chief of having an additional security officer around. ÒEnsign Taylor. Welcome to the party. Just keep your eyes and ears open.Ó Said Lee ÒI also assigning you to be the CommanderÕs close protection officer.Ó (reply if any) Lee turned to Commander Williams-Verin ÒWhat are your orders, Commander?Ó (reply) (posted by John) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 11 - Main Engineering - 2/O LCDR Dieter Gregory - 0125) "Commander," Outrider spoke, "If you will confirm my work, I have the navigation sensors back online." "Good work, Outrider," Gregory said as he confirmed the results. "Where are my phasers Mr. McGuyver." "Sir, I have the dorsal phaser array online, but the ventral phaser arrays don't seem to be responding to commands. I'll need to go check them later," the engineer responded. "Very good," Gregory replied, "Its better than nothing." Tapping his COM badge, "Gregory to Corday, you in position? Navigational sensors are online now." (Reply Snoopy) "Excellent, you have local control," Gregory replied, releasing control to the pilot. "Gregory to Taylor. We've restored the dorsal phaser array. Mr. Taylor, how many photon torpedo's do we have?" (Reply Taylor) "Damnit, I need you on tactical. I've got petty officer P'Rah on his way to your location, he can take over babysitting duty." (reply Taylor) "Very good, Mr. Taylor." His chess pieces in place, he tapped his comm badge again, "Commander Verin, we have navigational sensors and Mr. Corday is ready at the helm for your commands. We've also got the dorsal phaser array and are waiting on a photon count. I've moved Mr. Taylor to tactical and Petty Officer P'Rah should be arriving shortly. We are continuing to affect repairs from engineering." (Verin) (reply Corday, Taylor, Verin) (posted by Tim) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck B - TIC - Pilot Lt. Corday, SecO Ensign Andy Taylor - 0130) =^=Gregory to Corday, you in position? Navigational sensors are online now.=^= Corday sat at the flight operations station and pulled up the controls, ÒIÕm in Lt. Commander. Assuming navigation control.Ó =^Excellent, you have local control.=^= Corday chuckled, thinking to himself, ~That would be a first.~ =^=Gregory to Taylor. We've restored the dorsal phaser array. Mr. Taylor, how many photon torpedo's do we have?=^= ÒSorry sir,Ó Taylor said, ÒBut Lt. Lee has me on guard duty for Lt. Commander Verin. Apparently he doesnÕt think Mr. Weston is up to the job alone.Ó =^=Damnit, I need you on tactical. IÕve got petty officer PÕRah on his way to your location, he can take over babysitting duty.Ó Taylor stepped around Lee, uncomfortably, and sat at the tactical station. He pulled up the torpedo inventory and whistled. ÒItÕs not a full load, sir, but IÕm seeing over 300 torpedoes. 307 to be exact. Apparently they spent a few. Inventory shows they had a full load when they last took on supplies.Ó =^=Very good, Mr. Taylor.=^= Andy moved uncomfortably in the chair as he felt LeeÕs stare at the back of his head. This was not going to end well for him. =^Commander Verin, we have navigational sensors and Mr. Corday is ready at the helm for your commands. We've also got the dorsal phaser array and are waiting on a photon count. I've moved Mr. Taylor to tactical and Petty Officer P'Rah should be arriving shortly. We are continuing to affect repairs from engineering.=^= (reply Verin) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck 4 - Corridor - Leeza Pel - 0130) Leeza Pel awoke in her little bed and looked around. No one was there. Usually, her Mommy or Daddy was there but this time she was alone. She started crying out of fright. The 2-year-old little girl was never allowed to wander the ship alone but with her parents missing she took it upon herself to find them. She put her shoes on, though they were on the wrong feet, grabbed her blankie, made her way out of her quarters, and walked with her little Trill dolly complete with removable symbiote in her hand. She heard someone move down the corridor. She knew that someone would help her and she headed in that direction. Tears started to fall down her eyes as she could not find the source of the movement. Looking around, she was lost. She could not read the signs as she was too young to read. ÒMommy! Daddy!Ó She screamed out. (Reply any) (Posted by Kris B.) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.30) She waited for her next orders to act but she couldn't help by imagine the tension over at the Rhyme. If she had her abilities back she would send some soothing waves over to them but she couldn't. This was a certain level of frustration for her. She just had to keep working and find more ways to help the situation. She wondered if Luma could help her with what the away team is feeling but its better to keep busy. (Reply None) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.32) She was monitoring the field where she thought the Klingon ships were located. She had a thought to how they can locate the ships by the sound they make when running. She thought Luma could help in that regard. She leaned next to T'Mur and told her of her theory. "Say we track the sound the Klingon ships emit as they are running. Luma can help in this regard. We can use this to target them without them knowing how we did." (Reply Luma, T'Mur) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck B Ð Chief of Security Lt (jn) Keung Lee - 0135) Lee put an hand to his mouth as he stopped himself from yawning and stood behind Taylor who was at the tactical station checking the torpedo inventory. He felt a little bit miffed when Taylor was ordered to man the station. Lee whispered to Taylor ÒYou better watch yourself. I did not say that Mr Weston was not up to the job alone. Infact he is more than capable! But nevertheless you will remain alert even when Petty Officer PÕRah takes over close protection duties.Ó Lee straightened up and turned to Commander Vein ÒAnything you would like me to do, MaÕam?Ó (reply Verin) (posted by John) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.35) After relaying the theory to T'Mur she walked over to the science station to get T'Shalath involved. She relayed the theory to her to see what she can do with it. "Can you detect the cloaked ships with the theory. What can I do to help?" (Reply T'Shalath) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne Ð Deck 1- Battle Operations Center Ð EO Ð Ensign Scott Matrix - 0137) The operations center was light up like a Christmas tree. Scott was keeping up, barely. The monitor screens were constantly updating status and alerts as the away team managed the Rhyne's systems. Scott managed to notice the navigational sensor alert blink green, indicating it was operational. "Scott to Commander Verin...I really can't do much more here. Where would you like me to go? Engineering?" Asked Scott. (Reply Verin) Scott secured the station and placed everything in observation mode. He tapped his comm badge and took the center chair briefly. The tactical display wasn't working or at least displaying anything of value. He tapped it, hoping to motivate it to do something useful. The display wasn't cooperating. He smacked it this time and the display flickered and went dark. ~Lovely~ he thought. Scott pulled out this tricorder and made a few scans of the tactical console and shrugged his shoulders. "Okay...be that way." He said aloud to no one. The stashed the tricorder and opened up a sonic driver and made a few adjustments to the console. Whatever he did, it made the display console reset and in a few moments it was displaying properly. ~Nice!~ (Reply Verin, any) (Posted by Steve) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ( USS Illuminar - Deck 1- Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal - 0140) The Klingon Vor'cha class had been a notable contender for decades. While much smaller a Bird of Prey was essentially a ship built around a formidable weapons system and had given a knockout blow to many Federation ships over the years. The Battle Cruiser however had a more powerful disruptor, was heavier and well armored. The Illuminar however had surpasses it and was the heavy weight in this fight. Sekal didnÕt relax however, many battles turned quickly on the smallest details. ÒWhat about the neck?Ó He turned to his 3/0. "Interesting." ÒThe Bridge of that ship is connected with a small tether. What if we target the area and cut the head of the bird off, in a manner of speaking? It is a VorÕcha class ship. It has a secondary hull made of duranium alloy. So their weakest part would be the bridge tether and would also cause the least casualties." He nodded and turned to tactical. "What is the status of their shields in that area?" (T'Mur, T'shalaith) "When their forward shields are down target that area." (Reply:T'Mur) What happened next was not a small detail however as another battle cruiser decloaked along with a Bird of Prey and targeted the starboard warp nacelles. The Bird of Prey cloaked once again after firing while the Vor'cha remained as a visual target to draw fire. It's shields were hardier than the smaller ship and it could absorb more punishment. The Illuminar rocked to port due to the twin blows, one of which hit the shields over the nacelle and the other slightly aft of it. "Status report on the shields." He called out as the Dac'kar maneuvered in an attempt to fire at the port nacelle, its volley hit the aft of the saucer section. (Reply: Any) Illuminar was caught in a pincher movement, the only way out was to force its way out. "The Dac'kar is weakened, continue to target it. Helm turn us toward that ship and force it to turn. Phasers and torpedoes in a minimal spread." A surgical strike was now out of the question, they would need to pummel the ship out of their maneuvering route. (Reply: All) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0142) "What is the status of their shields in that area?" ÒUnsurprisingly, that is where their shields are strongest,Ó TÕMur reported. ÒThey are aware of the structural weakness. There are even extra shield generators protecting a separation plate by their tactical bridge.Ó "When their forward shields are down target that area." ÒAlready programmed,Ó the CTO said, having anticipated that eventuality. The incoming ships had disappeared from her sensor readings. Clearly they had cloaked. Trei leaned over and said. ""Say we track the sound the Klingon ships emit as they are running. Luma can help in this regard. We can use this to target them without them knowing how we did." T'Mur raised an eyebrow, and thought. "Technically, ships don't make noise in space, however, that being said, we can adapt the sensors to read gravitational waves as the cloaked ships move through the fabric of space. That creates spacial compression that can be detected. Ensign T'Shalaith can you make those adjustments?" (reply T'Shalaith) Suddenly another Vor'cha class warship and a Bird of Prey decloaked and immediately opened fire. The Illuminar rocked as they struck the warp nacelles. Then the bird of prey cloaked as it moved off. The second VorÕcha warbird turned to face them. TÕMur has already begun to return fire, making point blank torpedo strikes followed by phasers. "Status report on the shields," Sekal called out. The Dac'kar moved in and fired. A volley of torpedoes hit the aft of the saucer section, once again sending shock waves through the ship. ÒShields are down to 80 percent,Ó TÕMur replied. ÒHowever we have sustained damage to the port nacelle and warp engines are off line." "The Dac'kar is weakened," Sekal noted, "continue to target it. Helm turn us toward that ship and force it to turn. Phasers and torpedoes in a minimal spread." T'Mur fingers flew over the controls and fired a barrage of torpedoes and the neck of the Warbird. Then she fired phasers, as the torpedoes exploded. The timing was impeccable as the the phasers made their way through the shielding and ripped through the hull of the Klingon ship. That ship was no longer a viable threat to the Illuminar. T'Mur wonder how much longer it would hold together. By her calculations, not very long. (reply T'Shalaith, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. T'Mur - 0143) The Illuminar was now getting pummeled by the new warbird. The Bird of Prey declaimed for a strafing run and then cloaked again as it moved off. TÕMur continued to make shield adjustments while returning fire. At the same time she monitored the Rhyne. She couldnÕt help but smile when she saw its shields power on. ::Good girl, Sienna.:: Then she saw the DacÕkar change its heading towards the near defenseless ship. ÒCaptain, the Klingon ship is moving towards the Maelstrom and attempting to target the Rhyne.Ó ::Sweet Sienna, Luma help.:: (reply Sekal, Luma) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (IKS Dac'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - yaS waÕdIch - SanÕdras- 0145) SanÕdra, now at the helm, turned the Warbird towards the immobile ship in the center of the anomaly it most likely had created. However there were some strange readings coming from the ship. She had begun to lock weapons on it when her sensors suddenly registered shields raising and power to their phasers increasing. ÒVa!Ó she exclaimed, ÒThis rQl targ is showing its claws. Perhaps it still has some fight in it yet. Disrupters are armed but I cannot get a target lock with the computer. All the better. I will target it on manual.Ó She looked over her shoulder at the hOd, her eyes blazing with intention as she prepared to fire at the Federation vessel. Suddenly a wave of disorientation hit SanÕdras. Her vision blurred momentarily, then refocused. She checked her readings quickly and immediately realized that something was wrong. It took her a minute to realize what it was. ÒhOd,Ó she called out, Òlook at our thlaq, itÕs É wrong. It appears we just experienced a 40 minute time jump. It appears that this area of space is temporaly unstable. Perhaps a side effect of their weapon.Ó (reply KarÕchek) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (IKS Da'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Kar'chek - 0146) The other ships had decloaked and fired on the Illuminar, whoever was flying the ship made it hard to target easily however. The other cruiser had hit the nacelle while the Bird of Prey had missed aft. The Da'kar likewise had missed its target hitting the saucer section instead. It was the other ship's next maneuver that had him cursing. "Geck! The Vulcan is a devil. Hold course! All emergency power to the forward shields!" The Illuminar was attempting to force its way out of the snare it found itself in and he had two options, attempt to hold it in place or give way. He had chosen the former. But his ship wasn't up to the task. When the barrage hit the Da'kar reeled like a drunken sailor, there was a rending crash, command center lights went out, blinked momentarily then came back on dimly as emergency power kicked in. Kar'chek was thrown to the rail on the port side and bounced off, grabbing onto it kept him from reeling back toward the command chair. Yellow lights flashed from the boards and a siren blared. "Damage report!" To his left one of the crewman slumped over his board which was smoldering, shards of metal were embedded in his skull. Curses and shouts from the others quieted at his order. "Damage to the power conduits aft of the command center. Weapons and flight controls offline. Da'kar is drifting." "Reroute! Get me power and command/control to the command center Petaq!" "Rerouting now." Power was restored momentarily and scanners revealed the other ship which had up to now gone unnoted. "Va! This rQl targ is showing its claws. Perhaps it still has some fight in it yet. Disrupters are armed but I cannot get a target lock with the computer. All the better. I will target it on manual.Ó He showed his teeth. Da'kar was out of the fight with Illuminar but there was still available prey. "Weapons control." "Powering up disruptors." "Scan that ship. What of its shields?" "Standard hOd, our weapons will cut through it." "Target it San'dras. Fire when ready." ÒhOd look at our thlaq, itÕs É wrong. It appears we just experienced a 40 minute time jump. It appears that this area of space is temporaly unstable. Perhaps a side effect of their weapon.Ó "Geck!" He snarled. "This area of space is certainly unstable, the sooner we get out the better. But first we deal with the Federation slime devils." (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 3 - Personal Quarters - Temas Laredo - 0148) Temas lay on his bed holding his hands around his ears, knowing that the sounds he was hearing were not with the man. It had been a long time since heÕd lost focus and control of his abilities in this way. But the voices he was hearing, they werenÕt voices from the Illuminar. The voices were crying out to him from far away. Thousands of them. Crying out in anguish and despair. Incessantly calling out. And no matter how hard he tried he could not block them all. There were just too many. And they never stopped. It was the bad days all over again. ÒStop,Ó he cried. ÒPlease stop. ItÕs too much. Too much.Ó He rolled out of his bed and crawled across the floor until he could find a hand hold so he could leverage himself to his feet. From the counter he staggered to the door. As the door opened he fell through the door space, to fall against the wall across the corridor. (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Temas Laredo - 0150) Laredo had half run, half staggered, through the voices, through the pain, until he wound up at the one place that he knew he could get help. The one place he could always get help. The two people, the only two people, who had ever been able to help him. His hand reached out, tears streaming from his eyes, and fell onto the the door chime. When the door opened he collapsed into the room. ÒHelp me,Ó he called out, hope for unconsciousness to take him, but it refused. (reply Riven, Michaela) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.50) When they were hit this time the ship rocked. She was flung down the deck like she was yanked by a cane. She tried to make her way back to her station but it was difficult like she was running on a reverse treadmill. She channeled her anger to fight her way back upright to access her station. When she was able to view the display, she saw the disabled klingon ship drift toward the maelstrom. She could see the Rhyme at the edge of the storm. The disabled Klingon ship was powering up their disruptors targeting the Rhyme. She hoped the Rhyme could take care of itself but they had two cloaked warbirds to deal with. She offered a theory to locate the two warbirds. "Captain. I am detecting movement through the debris. We can target the two warbirds without them knowing how we did it. What are your orders sir?" (Reply Sekal, T'Mur, Any) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal - 0151) The two reports came quickly, one on the heels of the other. ÒCaptain, the Klingon ship is moving towards the Maelstrom and attempting to target the Rhyne.Ó From Lieutenant T'Mur. "Captain. I am detecting movement through the debris. We can target the cloaked ship without them knowing how we did it. What are your orders sir?" From Lieutenant Trei. The Da'kar was still on the main viewer, it had begun moving as it turned and was accelerating toward the Akira. Sekal stood up from the command chair as he followed it with his eyes. The Rhyne was in no shape for a battle, much less with the disruptors of Da'kar on the best of days.... and this was far from its best. Illuminar had two ships to deal with but that could be done without warp capability. The engines were still online though the warp coils had been reported down. Self preservation was not necessary at this time. "Target the Da'kar and fire as soon as you have lock. Phasers and torpedoes." (Reply: T'Mur) "Lieutenant Trei do not lose track of that Bird of Prey, as soon as the Da'kar is dealt with it will receive our full attention." (Reply: Trei) The ship rocked again as the Vor'cha unleashed a new barrage, the Bird of Prey was out there watching for an opening. Sekal's mind was primarily on the Da'kar however. Three muted thumps signaled the launch of torpedoes and phased energy ravened toward Da'kar. If they hadn't fired in time the other ship could expect severe damage. (Reply: All on the bridge) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. TÕMur - 0152). "Target the Da'kar and fire as soon as you have lock. Phasers and torpedoes,Ó Sekal ordered TÕMur was struggling with the target lock for the torpedoes. She knew that she was only going to have one shot at this. If there was a mistake in her calculations it would cost Sienna and the others their lives, and the fault would be hers. She blocked out the other conversations on the bridge, took a breathe and refocused. It was taking too long. Breathe. Focus. Then it was there. Fire. Fire. Fire. Three torpedoes launched and sped their way the their target. She watched as the DaÕkar powered its disrupters and prepared its own attack. Then she fired the phasers, directly at the point of impact of the torpedoes. Everything seemed to strike the Klingon warbird at the same moment at the point of the connection on the head of the ship. The explosion was mesmerizing. And when the flash quickly dissipatedÉ the ship was still there. Still there, just hanging in space, nearly lifeless. Nearly lifeless. It was no longer showing power to any system other than the disrupters. It was still turning on its axis towards the Rhyne. She would not be able to fire again in time. TÕMur held her breath for what was inevitable. Then the unthinkable happened. The Rhyne fired its own phasers. At near point blank range, the Klingon ship with no shields, the phaser barrage struck it. The ship immediately exploded, sending shockwaves out into the universe. TÕMur finally breathed. She looked down at her sensor readings and a new wave of panic set in. The Rhyne was starting to slip back into the Maelstrom and phase out of this universe. ÒCaptain,Ó she called out, Òthe Rhyne! ItÕs falling into the MaelstromÕs gravity well. ItÕs starting to disappear.Ó (reply Sekal, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Dr. Riven Mias - 0153) Yes his and Michaella's quarters were still here which would be strange on the surface. Riven was acting in the capacity of ship's counselor though he always deferred to Alaya and sought out her opinion. The reason? Dammit she had been on the ship since launch and was highly qualified while Riven had come aboard at her request and the Captain's to help her out. This was the way he looked at it and no one could tell him differently. But back to the subject of his quarters, counselors don't get VIP quarters but Federation Ambassadors do and you couldn't take that designation away from him. But WHY was he in his quarters now? Good question: the ship was in red alert during a battle on the heels of a harrowing investigation into the other Federation starship, you would think he would be on post in medical. You would be wrong on two counts. Number one Alaya had relieved him of duties for the day and taken over, he would be returning to duties tomorrow. The second would be that Ambasssdorial designation. According to StarFleet regs he was required during a conflict to remain in secure quarters for the duration of the battle. Would he follow those regulations strictly? If you are thinking yes then you don't know Riven Mias, if an emergency arose that required his expertise nothing was going to stop him. Was he sleeping? Hell no! Who could sleep when the ship you are on has blaring sirens and is getting knocked about by concussive force? So the Betazoud mind healer, priest and Ambassador was in a dark blue robe and sandals, sitting in the living area and reading. When that is he wasn't concentrating on his surroundings. The whole time they had been here he had had an uneasy feeling as though being watched. He knew Luma wasn't doing it because they were in close contact now and again chatting about old times, how she was feeling, how the bond with Temas was holding up and how well they were getting along. Let's face it, Luma is naturally the chatty sort and she had been by herself for an unbelievably long time. She had her bondmate now in Temas but that doesn't mean she couldn't talk to others, she wasn't cheating on Temas by speaking with Riven telepathically. Riven also found Luma to be a delightful creature and enjoyed listening. Oh the things she knew if one would only ask... or read between the lines. But at this point Luma was not herself, nor were many others. It had started slowly and built inexorably over time. When he opened his empathic senses there were a plethora of emotions flooding in; fear, pain, doubt, pleasure, euphoria. The dichotomy was puzzling as there were many conflicting emotions from many different people. Many were doubtless being affected, but no two it seemed in the same way. His head snapped toward the door, someone was in anguish and they were close. He jumped to his feet and was at the door when it chimed. He slapped the button and as the door opened grabbed Temas as he fell. ÒHelp me,Ó "Settle down Temas." He said in a soothing tone and half dragged him toward the couch. "Michaella prepare a sedative and quickly. And add a psionic suppressant. I'll stabilize Temas until you get them in him." He dropped Temas onto the couch then pushed his legs up with him so that he was reclining. "Temas I'm going to shield you just like we've done many times before. Relax and don't fight me." (Reply; Temas) Riven pulled a small chair next to the couch then perched himself upon it and closed his eyes. His mind reached out and found the young Betazoids. Entwined with Temas was Lumas mind and that would add difficulty ... until the suppressant kicked in. At that point Luma would be frantic but he had already planned for that, he would seamlessly take over the bond until Temas was able to rejoin with her. ::Relax and give your mind over to me.:: (Reply: Temas, Michaella) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 01.53) She saw the torpedoes hit the Klingon ship just as it was going to fire disrupters at the Rhyme. The torpedoes tore into the Klingon ship like a great marksman shooting through a model ship at battle practice. She imagined the torpedoes blowing up the heart of the dishonorable Klingon with satisfaction and sending him to Sto'vo'kor crashing on the ground like the vile dog he is. When she looked back at the screen, she saw the Rhyme drift back into the maelstrom out of sight. That concerned her but they had two cloaked warbirds to worry about. She would have tried to soothe T'Mur if she had her abilities but could not. She continued to monitor the warbirds as ordered. (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Rhyne - Deck B - TIC - FO Commander Sienna Williams-Verin, Pilot Lt. Corday, SecO Ensign Andy Taylor, SFI Michael Weston - 0154) As everyone settled into different jobs in the crowded space of the makeshift battle battle bridge on the Tactical Information Center, Taylor had managed to access the sensors that had been brought on line and found a display to show what was happening outside. Suddenly he grew concerned. ÒUmmmÉCommander?Ó he called out. ÒThereÕs a problem here. The Klingon ship is turning to fire on us.Ó Sienna had been walking around the place she had chosen for the crew to shelter until the Illuminar dealt with the Klingon threat to the Rhyne. Sienna turned as she heard something whisper behind her, but as was usual on the Rhyne, she too was hallucinating. They all were. Gregory had decided to stay in Engineering rather than obey her order, which irked her. She took deep breaths to calm her irrational anger. Her head shot up when the emotional contagion changed to startled fear in the room and she too felt fear when she heard what the Ensign had to say. ::Shoot.:: She sent telepathically. Something seemed to echo her, as if she heard herself say it multiple times. ÒQuickly, reinforce our shielding here, and in engineering. I wanted us here because it was the most reinforced area on the ship.Ó She stared, hoping the Illuminar would move to defend them. Her mind reached across to TÕMur, connecting with her for a moment. ::I love you.:: She sent to TÕMur. There was a bright flash at the base of the head of the Warbird. When it dissipated the ship hung in space, spinning slowly on its axis. The sensors showed that it was dead. Well, almost dead. There was still a power signature in their forward disruptors. And watching the spinning it would be pointed at the Rhyne in a few seconds. ÒThe Klingon ship still has power to its disruptors,Ó Taylor announced. ÒIt looks like theyÕre waiting to align their weapons with the Rhyne, which should happen in about 12 seconds.Ó ÒKeep up our shields, and fire phasers,I think there might be just enough charge to target them. Do so and time it well.Ó She touched TaylorÕs shoulder with a smile. She still expected to die in the next few minutes. ÒYes maÕam,Ó Taylor replied. He moved his hands over the controls and brought up the phaser controls. There was really only enough power for one full powered shot. He was counting down in his head as the phasers came to life. FiveÉ. FourÉ threeÉ twoÉ . He received the green light and fired. A bright bolt of phased energy shot out from the RhyneÕs array and struck the Warbird. The ship suddenly burst into a ball of energy discharge. The shock waves struck the Rhyne and shook the ship. Taylor clung to his seat, but those who had been standing were not nearly as lucky, as they were thrown to the ground or against bulkheads. ÒGood news and bad news, Commander,Ó Taylor reported. ÒThe good news is that the Klingon ship is destroyed. The bad news is the concussive blast has pushed the Rhyne deeper into the anomaly. WeÕre caught in some kind of gravitational well.Ó Corday worked the helm as best as he could but there was not enough power in the engines to make any head way. ÒDamn it,Ó he said more to himself than anyone else, as he realized that they were losing ground. ÒWhatever's in the center of this anomaly, itÕs got a good hold on us Commander. I canÕt stop this.Ó Sienna looked around her and was confused. She could hear Corday reporting in, distantly as if she were under water. What she was seeing looked to be moments of time that were overlapping, instabilities in the timeline causing her to fluctuate. Sienna looked down at her hand and could see through part of it. Pain wracked her body, fear was on her features. She had no idea what was happening. It felt like something was ripping her apart, molecule by molecule. She couldnÕt speak, she couldnÕt move. She could only experience the horror. She thought she was dying. The pain was indescribable. Weston had been keeping his eye on Verin and saw her literally dissolve into thin air. He jumped over the rail in front of him and reached for her. His hand went through her as though she were a Ghost. He looked into her eyes as she disappeared, and all he could see was the fear. ÒCommander Verin! Sienna!Ó But it was too late. Sienna was gone. Where was the question. Was she even still alive? (reply any) (posted by Al Muir and Mel G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (IKS Da'kar, Vor'Cha class- Deck 1- Bridge - hOd - Kar'chek - 0155) "Illuminar is targeting us. Firing!" "Ghay'cha!" He snarled. Da'kar seemed to buck and spin as the shots hit home. Sparks and flames exploded from panels and the command center was quickly filled with smoke. They were alive still if just holding on. The Akira on the flickering screen however was no longer passive, weapons fire reached out from it. "CHEGH-Chew...." He didn't get to finish the sentence as pain shot through him and his body was atomized in the explosions that ripped the Da'kar apart. The world as it were ceased to exist for him as he departed screaming the ritual phrase of glory earned through combat. (Sto'Voh'Kor - Kar'chek - unknown) Small stones could be felt digging into his face and fingers, as he stirred sand shifted beneath him. He heard the distinctive sound of waves washing upon a nearby shore and the creak of wooden gunnels as well as the lap of water against them. The distinctive odor of brine wafted into his nostrils and his eyes shot open to darkness. From somewhere a ship's bell rang. Fog pressed around him but he could make out the flickering illumination of fires suspended above the ground not far away. Kar'chek pushed himself to a sitting position and flexed his fingers, the leather gauntlets he wore whispered and creaked as he did so. He felt his chest and midriff then grinned contentedly. He remembered his final words and blackness then ... here. Where was here? Where else could it be but the place of glory befitting a true warrior? Rising to his feet he made for the illumination, walking through the soft sand until he was close enough to make out the braziers hanging from posts and suspended above a plank path. "So here I am. The place of the honored dead." He didn't feel dead, technically he felt more alive than perhaps at any time before. But dead was dead. He made his way down the path, his boots clomping upon the wood and soon could make out a large, bright patch ahead. Off to his left the wash of water upon which the wooden ships rode and the pungent odor of salt was ever present. Stone structures soon hove into view and with them other sounds, laughter and guttural shouts. He smiled in pleasure at that. Where merriment abounded so would bloodwine and gakh. His steps came to a halt as he left the plank path and stood among the buildings, the largest was to his right and closed with a heavy wooden door, this edifice was where the sounds emanated from so he walked toward it. Braziers flared and smoked, hanging on metal arms from tall posts driven deep into the ground before them and to each side. The heavy door opened before him as he pulled and the sounds of merriment hit him full force. The interior was smoky but cavernous, lit by candles and hanging sconces and the honored dead sat upon wooden benches at long tables arranged about its length. He gave a roar of delight and made his way inside, many turned their heads to look upon the new face among them. Others seemed oblivious to his entrance, perhaps they had been here so long that a new arrival held no interest for them. A table to his left held flagons and covered bowls so he made for it. Something he saw on the way however arrested his attention. He stopped and looked, thunderstruck. A human! Sitting at a table with Klingons, drinking from a flagon and dipping his fingers into a bowl! Laughing and jesting with the rest! A growl rumbled from his throat and he stalked toward the table. The human saw him coming and gave a look of resignation before rising after a quick sip. He wasn't tall, had dark hair and a jaunty mustache. The rest noted the coming showdown and got up to stand clear, watch and enjoy the spectacle. "Why are you here petaQ? How?" Kar'chek roared as he neared the table while wondering why the human was smirking. A blow from the left crashed into his face and sent him reeling to the floor. His left hand went to his burning cheek as he shook his head to clear it then looked up to see a mountain of a Klingon looming over him. The honored dead was snarling down at him. "I was as surprised as you mon' ami when I arrived" Kar'chek's eyes turned to the human who was now smiling. "You have met my friend and former first officer Commander Galk I see." Those smiling eyes were mocking. "But where was I? Oh yes! It was he who welcomed me to your warrior's paradise after our ship was destroyed by the Nimitz. I must admit it has been great fun, warring all day and celebrating all night, you Klingons know how to fight and throw a party. My appreciation is unbounded." He gave a slight bow. "Captain Henre' LeBeau at your service, formerly of the USS Alamo." "Federation." Kar'chek spat as he got up from the floor. He was helped up by Galk's fist clenched is his collar. He was lifted until nose to nose with the bigger Klingon. "Listen closely petaQ. I will kill you if you attack him." The flat of a Dakh'tang was pressed to his right cheek. At his surprised look the mountain of muscle rumbled. "Yes. You will return at the beginning of the next night every time you die in time for the celebration but I will be waiting to kill you again... and again until you learn. He is my cha'Dich, he fights with us against our enemies among the other encampments of the honored dead. An eternal war followed by a long night of celebration. The way we lived so we continue to fight... sometimes we are victorious, sometimes we lose but always we fight and glory in the battle." Kar'chek understood. What better afterlife for such as he? "I understand." He pushed away from Galk and looked away from the weapon. "And what if I just wish to engage in a good fight?" Galk put away his blade. "Then I shall watch you pick yourself up afterward. He has been with us for quite some time." Kar'chek looked to the Captain. "The Federation Civil war?" "A good guess." LeBeau nodded. "I've heard from others how it ended. How the Federation then withdrew back into itself." He moved from behind the table as the others formed a circle and cheered. "Well they are back." Kar'chek stepped back to prepare. "Oh?" LeBeau rolled up his sleeves. "One of your ships sent me here." "A Sovereign? An Odyssey class?" "No. A new ship modeled on a science vessel. Commanded by an acid tongued Fek'lir with the face of a Vulcan." Henre' laughed as he brought up his fists. "Against your Bird of Prey?" ; "No." Kar'chek flexed his arms and set his feet. "A Vor'cha. With another and a Bird of Prey. I shall tell the full tale when we are done." "Sounds positively delightful." LeBeau's eyes looked wistful. "But that is another life. Shall we begin?" The two men leapt at one another with a roar. Later he picked his battered form up from the floor as Galk had predicted, LeBeau was raising his flagon in a toast. "To the honored dead." It was echoed from more than a hundred throats including his own. (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice, Dr. Mason Quincy - 0206) Quinna looked around the bridge. She knew where she was supposed to be but knew where she needed to be. ÒCaptain, sickbay is understaffed now with a doctor and several medics now missing with Rhyne. Mr. Quincy is overwhelmed.Ó (Reply Sekal) ÒMy place right now is with Commander Verin.Ó Quinna said, Òand that is the Chief Medical Officer talking.Ó Quinna turned on her heels and headed out to sickbay. In the turbolift, Quinna managed to let herself be overwhelmed with emotions. She put a hand over her mouth and bent over her upset stomach. She let out a bombardment of tears and screamed out in frustration. Her tantrum continued as she kicked the turbolift. Her heart was breaking. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Temas Laredo - 0155) RivenÕs words could not register in TemasÕ brain. He could hear them, he just was not capable of comprehending them over the din of the thousands of voices raging in his mind. Screaming for help. Dying. "Temas I'm going to shield you just like we've done many times before. Relax and don't fight me." Riven pulled a small chair next to the couch then perched himself upon it and closed his eyes. His mind reached out and found the young Betazoids. Entwined with Temas was Lumas mind and that would add difficulty ... until the suppressant kicked in. At that point Luma would be frantic but he had already planned for that, he would seamlessly take over the bond until Temas was able to rejoin with her. ::Relax and give your mind over to me.:: Those words we so familiar that he actually managed to release is mind. A five year old Temas lay on the floor of his chamber, rolled into a ball. The image of the faces of disgust and fear of his parents filled his mind. There was no compassion for their obviously incapacitated child in those looks. He had embarrassed them too many times. He had hurt them too many times. On a world where there were no secrets but those one could drive deep into the recesses of your mind, he had exposed even those. Not only of his family, but of anyone that was within range of his mind. His parents were nowhere near him, but his mind still sought them out and found them, seeking some kind of solace from them. All he met with was the same thought he usually found. ::Get out of our heads. You are not allowed in here.:: Then wave after wave of the thoughts of others washed through his mind. Most of the thoughts were thousands of banal pieces of information. Some were deep and dark. He would try to push them all away, but he could not. He latched onto a mind that was close. Someone with some strength, who was attempting to shield their thoughts from him. The strain for both of them was so great, and he could see through the eyes of the other, and blood streaming from their hemorrhaging brain through their nasal passages and ears. The horror of the sight only created a greater panic in the five year old. Then, through it all, came that calm, kind voice saying ::Relax and give me your mind over to me. DonÕt fight me.:: There was something about that voice that drew his focus, and slowly he managed to relax. One by one the voices disappeared, until finally there was only one voice. A womanÕs voice, and she was singing a song. A soft, loving, soothing song. ::Hello little man. The soft voice said. I am Michaela, and this is Riven. We will help you.:: And he believed them. Temas opened his eyes and looked at Riven. He tried to give a weak smile. ÒI am so sorry Riven,Ó Temas said, his voice barely a whisper. ÒI donÕt understand whatÕs going on. Who are those voices. The horrors I was seeing. I havenÕt lost control like that in years.Ó He could feel his mentorÕs mind entangled with his own, holding the voices at bay, and keeping his own mind in check. ÒI thought Luma was going to help me with this,Ó he said, almost pleading. (reply Riven) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (Shuttlecraft - FO on the run Mirror-Universe Commander Sienna Verin - 0157) Mirror Sienna was scared. Her parents had decided that she needed to be bonded to some vulcan woman to secure an alliance between the rival factions of vulcan and Sol. This would have been a disaster. She had cut the ties between her twin brother as soon as she could at the age of 16. She knew that Trip was following in the steps of their Father's family and she knew that Sophie Verin had been inclined to her daughter, the premiere Princess of Starfleet to shimmer and shine with a command. That Trip had gotten one of the two commands was to be expected. If Sienna was part fo Starfleet royalty, then Trip Williams was the crown prince, expected to inherit it all. That Sienna had not been chosen for the second command had been a shock. Starfleet had chosen Saleke's son as the other commander. Sophie had gone hunting Saleke, intending to murder him for the insult to their family. Sophie had not been successful, but everyone knew that she had been trying. Saleke was her fellow Admiral, and was as well guarded as she was. It would have been a disaster for Sienna to be forced bonded to a vulcan. She would tear through all her shielding, rape her mind and find out that Sienna was an undercover agent for the resistance and had been since she was twelve. She leaked information about the Terran Empire, she sabotaged projects, she got some planets evacuated before the doomsday weapons were used. She quietly assassinated the worst offenders, in an apparent bid to rise in the ranks. And somehow she had stood beside Sekal when she failed, and watched the results of her failure. It had been an object lesson in why the resistance did what it did. Hiding in the comet trail, she realized that no one was looking for her. Setting the sensors to alert her if anything came in her vicinity, she engaged the cloak of the shuttle and leaned back, closing her exhausted eyes. And she dreamed. (reply none) (posted by Mel) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Counselor- Dr. Riven Mias - 0158) ÒI am so sorry Riven, I donÕt understand whatÕs going on. Who are those voices. The horrors I was seeing. I havenÕt lost control like that in years.Ó Riven could hear the words as though they had been spoken on the far shore of a lake and carried across the water. His own mind was elsewhere, differentiating the thoughts of Temas from Luma. ÒI thought Luma was going to help me with this." ::Be calm Temas, Luma is being affected as well and the panic in the minds of both is feeding off of the other through your bond. One moment.:: He sensed Michaella nearby and felt rather than heard her preparing the hypo. He projected his mental shielding over both himself and his protogee, blocking out the other intruding minds and emotions. ::I can shield you but not indefinitely. Michaella is going to give you a sedative. You understand this?:: (Reply: Temas) ::Good. You are going to be asleep for a while and the intrusions will be blocked for about twelve hours. I won't leave Luma alone but will take your place temporarily. When you are back to full strength we will make the exchange once again. You do understand Luma will be all right?:: (Reply: Temas) ::I wouldn't dream of letting her suffer. We will have a lot to talk about.:: He heard the hiss of the hypo and maintained both the shielding and mental support as Temas became drowsy. (Reply: Temas) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice, CTac Lieutenant T'Mur, aCEO Lieutenant Bohb, FO Commander Sienna Verin. SPC Luma Lenai and ACSO Ensign Skashe Winters- 0200) The torpedoes exploded in bright flashes against the Da'kar's remaining shielding as the phased energy raged against it. The timing at short range was impeccable. Though the ship was heavily damaged it wasn't destroyed or de-fanged ... yet. Sekal's eyes narrowed in concern until the Rhyne fired as well, which was completely unexpected. He stepped to the side as he muttered. "Good, well done." The energy pounded against Karchek's ship for nearly two agonizing seconds before it erupted into several blazing balls of energy which started at the Klingon ship's nose and continued aft. The center of the screen threw off a dazzling cascade of light which he squinted his eyes at until it subsided. Quinna shifted in her seat a bit. It was a positive sign from the Rhyne. Leaving her eyes closed she listened to the noise around her. Movement of the crewmen, the tapping of the consoles. ÒCaptain, the Rhyne! ItÕs falling into the MaelstromÕs gravity well. ItÕs starting to disappear.Ó QuinnaÕs eyes snapped open. Her first thought was of Michael then of course the rest of the crew. The Akira class ship with a large portion of Sekal's officerial complement was indeed falling toward the Maelstrom; he darted to the operations station. "Can we get a tractor lock on it?" ÔNegative,Ó TÕMur replied, fighting back the wave of panic, Òthere is literally nothing to lock onto.Ó ÒArenÕt the transports working again? Can we pick them up with the Transporter?Ó Quinna asked calmly. "Negative." The Captain called over his shoulder as another disruptor blast struck the shields, he grabbed the conn to remain upright. "If we lower our shields this ship will be destroyed." There was a sudden shout and his head shot toward science to see Ensign T'shalaith catapulted away from her station by a power surge. He was already shouting orders before she hit the deck. "Call a medical team and get Skashe Winters to the bridge!" Quinna rushed to Ensgn TÕShalaithÕs side but not before pulling the emergency medical kit from behind the command chair. Opening the device, she pulled out the medical tricorder and scanned. She noted an internal brain bleed. It was not at a level that required surgery as of right now. She pulled a hypospray and programmed Mannitol to control the bleed and stabilize TÕShalaith. When the medics came. Quinna looked at them, ÒTell Dr. Quincy to monitor for the next 4 hours. And to contact me with her status.Ó ÒYes maÕam.Ó Nurse Kelly replied. She tapped her comm badge. ÒKelly to sickbay, prepare to receive a wounded officer, and myself. Prepare Dr. Quincy for our arrival. WeÕre transporting to trauma room 1. Computer, STS to Sickbay, Trauma 1.Ó The nurse and her patient disappeared from the bridge in a hum of transporter effect. Suddenly the ship rocked again, bringing everyoneÕs attention back to the threat at hand. After rolling around the floor like a hot lover in bed, Quinna sprung to her feet to find the safety of her seat. "Tactical target the Bird of Prey, torpedoes on proximity detonation and fire when ready." TÕMurÕs eyes tore off the view of the Rhyne drifting back into the center of the Maelstrom and automatically began to fire torpedoes. She anticipated the trajectory of the cloaked vessel but it was already too late. She looked over at Sekal, seeing the tension in his neck and shoulders, and admiring his self control. She had not had the benefit of his emotional training. As a member of the merchant class it was ill advised to be completely devoid of emotions as so many species required some form of emotional connection to their vendors. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. Her hands almost stroked the controls. As the Bird of Prey decloaked she fired a volley of torpedoes. Set to proximity meant they were not as destructive, but the conclusive force of the explosions shook the Klingon ship. As it moved out of phaser range, however, it did not recloak. "Helm turn us about, target the Voh'rta. "Captain, it's gone." "What?" His head whipped around. "The Rhyne sir, it's no longer on sensors. It just É disappeared." At that one singular moment, everything froze. In that one beat of her heart, Quinna felt disconnected with the universe. ÒMichaelÓ She said softly under her voice. She snapped back into her reality. The CO returned to the command chair and activated the pop-up screen as he dropped into it. Sky rushed through the turbolift door and over to the science station which was unmanned. ~During a battle? What the hell happened?~ His eyes scanned the board and tapped a few keys, finding it dead he dropped to his knees and popped open the access panel. "Board is dead Captain, troubleshooting now." "Negative Mr. Winters, we do not have the time. Use one of the secondary panels." "Yes sir." Sky jumped up and went to the rear of the bridge then began setting up the programmable station. The news of the Rhyne disappearing hit TÕMur like a punch in the face. She fought with herself, her desire to show emotions, and her need to keep the Illuminar and the rest of the crew safe. What little sense she had of her mate had dissolved away. ::SiennaÉ donÕt leave me.:: Tears stung in her eyes as she held them back. To a casual observer they might notice that her eyes were a little watery. But she knew that she wouldnÕt fool Sekal. She made a suggestion, already knowing that it would be denied and considered foolhardy, which it was. ÒCaptain, if I took a shuttle and got close enough to the Rhyne, I may be able to pull them out.Ó He was looking at the screen as she spoke, his eyes drifted up from it as he remembered Sienna requesting his permission to make her quarters aboard Illuminar immediately after its commission due to personal issues, her obsessive work in the Arboretum on Mars which turned it into a thriving ecosystem, him carrying her to medical after she had over-exerted herself, the roses she had meticulously chosen for every deck of the ship which had become her homeÉ nattering over him like a mother hen while he was recovering from the knife wound that had nearly killed him. His finger poised for several heartbeats before coming down on the button. The viewer retracted and his voice was subdued as he spoke. "Negative. The ship is no longer there." He closed his eyes for an instant before standing up from the chair. The desolation he was feeling was no more welcome than the anger that was rising in its wake and he was struggling against both. Kar'chek had been promised death and he had received it, the other two ships would receive no quarter, no mercy. Sekal shook his head savagely as though to shake the thoughts from his mind or quench his building rage. The fingers of his left hand left imprints on the arm of the chair he was clutching. ::Luma. WeÕre going to lose her.:: T'Mur sent The Illuminar did something. To the crew on the Bridge; for a brief second they were merged with the Rhyne. Power flickered as the Lenai pulled hard on the Aneulurian crystal drive to put the Illuminar almost in the same place as the Rhyne. Almost, for two objects could not inhabit the same place and time, but she could bend that law. The misbehaving small ones had given her the idea. The haunting of the Rhyne hit the Illuminar crew in that brief second, then the ship had moved. Had the warp drive been online, it would have been easier. Luma blew the engineering console in a surge. In a flash it was over, and the Illuminar was in a different spot spatially, away from the anomaly. The hallucinations, the haunting ceased. The sense of vertigo and nausea was still there - corporeal beings were not meant to be pulled through space this way. But Sienna was curled up in the fetal position on the deck, right in front of her command chair. She looked like she had been through hell. Her uniform was faded and she had lost a substantial amount of weight, Luma needing the energy to come from somewhere to grab her. As she sat up, her long dark hair that was usually braided back in a crown braid had escaped and seemed dull. She stared at her hands, as if unbelieving that she was still alive. Quinna slid from her seat right next Sienna. During the last attack from the KlingonÕs the med kit had been thrashed about the bridge. Eyeing the medical tricorder next to the helm, Quinna crawled on her hands and knees and retrieved it. Dark circles were under Sienna's eyes, which were glassy. Her skin was pale and she was perspiring from shock and pain. =^= Luma is sorry!! Luma disobeyed the rules, but SiennaÕs TÕMur was breaking and Luma could not allow it to happen! Luma could not lose her Sienna!! =^= The LenaiÕs voice sounded faded, tired. The crew knew that she could do these sort of things, but not what the cost was to her for bending the rules. Sienna found herself gagging, trying to control the nausea to not throw up on her bridge, in front of the crew. She couldnÕt seem to get enough air into her lungs. She didnÕt seem to recognize anyone for a long moment, then her eyes went to TÕMur. :: I promised IÕd come back. :: And with that her eyes rolled back in her head and Sienna collapsed. Her system was in traumatic shock, her mind was in psychic shock. But she was back with the Illuminar and TÕMur. Quinna was once again by SiennaÕs side, scanning her. But someone pushed her to the side for the moment. Without thought, TÕMur leapt over her station and was kneeling beside Sienna. The relief of her presence in her mind was almost overwhelming. She reached down gently and stroked her cheek, reaching into her mind with the contact and sending smoothing waves of relief. Suddenly, the CTO was aware of the others looking at the scene. She stood up and straightened her tunic. ÒShe appears to be alive,Ó TÕMur reported, then turned and went back to her station. ÒThank you, Lt. TÕMur. I see that Starfleet Medical Extention course paid off.Ó Quinna snapped. TÕMurÕs eyes narrowed slightly and she froze on the spot. Apparently the doctor was making a sarcastic comment, unaware that TÕMur was simply trying to regroup her emotions. ÒI am certain you are well aware, Doctor Solice, that I have not been part of such an educational program,Ó the Vulcan said, feeling her calm return. ÒIf I had I would, most likely, have a different bedside manner.Ó She then continued to her station and began to run scans of the system, looking for possible Klingon activity. ÒMedics to the Bridge, Ò Quinna called out. ÒLuma, where are the others?Ó Quinna looked around the bridge, she was not happy with what she was seeing on her tricorder. She bit her lower lip waiting to hear anything about the others. Luma made an apologetic sound, =^= Luma did not have a bond with anyone there who was psionic, except our Sienna. And moving another without the psionic connection is not advisable. Our Sienna is not fully Betazoid, and this has made her ill. The corporeal form will right itself in a few days, but the symptoms areÉ. Distressing. Keeping her stabilized will help, and she must rest. The others areÉ no longer in our plane. They may be in a side dimension, Luma canÕt tell because Luma strained herself. The place we were in, the lines between the dimensions are weak andÉ=^= The LenaiÕs voice sounded fearful, =^= They could be anywhere, and in anywhen of the multitude of realities. It is most likely that the other small ones could be in an adjacent reality. The small ones can assist Luma in searchingÉ.after we repair the skin. Luma may have cracked a crystal.=^= She soundedÉ embarrassed. Quinna watched as the medics entered the bridge again. She wanted to drown out the commotion. Looking at the medics. ÒShe needs to get to sickbay. No beaming. Secure her to a stretcher and take her. Be delicate. Dr. Quincy will be waiting.Ó Quinna had taken in all that Luma said. She wasnÕt liking any of this but it was reality and Quinna understood.. ÒNo worries Luma. At Least you got Commander Verin home.Ó She was looking at TÕMur at the time. The look did not go unnoticed, but the intent of that look was uncertain. Was that an accusation? It was true. She was not able to save Sienna. =^= Our TÕMur was breaking as Our Sienna went away, Neither would have survived.=^= There was always a price to be paid, and sometimes the lesser of two bad choices was still not a great one. LumaÕs voice was sad, apologetic and embarrassed. =^= The klingon ships will figure out where we went? Soon?=^= And Luma had drained a great deal of the reserve energy with her maneuver. Quinna started thinking. Sometimes those thoughts came out loud. ÒA probe.Ó Quinna shook her head. ÒProbably notÓ "A probe?" Sekal turned his head to look at Quinna. ÒI just thought if we sent a probe, we might get some information of where they went. But that was me just thinking out loud.Ó Quinna said. The Captain shook himself internally, he had been watching the unfolding scene closely. He knelt at the other side of Sienna on one knee and looked at his third officer. "An excellent suggestion." Turning his head. "Mister Winters, what is your status?" "The panel is now active Captain, I'm feeling a bit queasy, orders?" "Prepare a Class IV probe. What is our current position?" "The star charts show we have been moved É 2.3 light years sir." "Place the navigational chart on the main viewer." He looked at the viewscreen as the turbolift doors opened and was studying it as a hand was placed on his shoulder. He looked down at Sienna then back up at the medic, rising slowly to make way for the anti-grav gurney. As they moved in, he returned his attention to the view screen. "Relay these orders to the shuttles that were left behind. They are to leave location and rendezvous with the ship at DV13 in five hours. Helm turn us about, 183 mark 5 and go to full impulse." "183 mark 5, turning sir." Tempest turned the ship to port slowly, the damage to the ship was not severe but she was testing its responses. Impulse power and maneuvering thrusters appeared unaffected and the course correction was crisp. "Holding heading 183 mark 5, initiating drive. The ship started out slowly as she eased into it, another test which went well so she fed it more power. "Full impulse in ten seconds." Sekal then stepped to his chair and hit the comm. "Engineering send a detail to the bridge." He glanced at the smoldering ruin that was once the engineering panel. "Send up a replacement for the bridge engineering panel with them." =^=What in the wide world of sports did you do up there? Never mind, I already know. I have the parts and will be there in a minute. Bohb out.=^= He deactivated the comms. "Mister Winters what data have you been able to retrieve?" "Working on that sir, Astrometrics is trying to make sense of the readings that were coming in during Rhyne's disappearance." "Would you care to share those readings with me?" Sekal turned to look at him fully. "Sorry sir." Skashe felt like squirming like a bug in a bird's beak at that stare. "The gravimetric readings show a gravity well approaching that of a neutron star yet the Maelstrom itself has near zero mass, in normal space that kind of pull would be impossible. There are some theories on this they are working on. The expected time of its disappearance as noted in the log by Ensign T'shalaith was off by an hour; it took approximately two hours rather than her estimated one. As for the readings from its coronal emissions, elevated readings of tachyonic resonance suggests a time slip for lack of a better term occurred at that instant. There is also evidence of an anti-matter flare from its core and what that suggests we have no idea as of yet. What we do know is that the fractal patterns in that area show a high probability that the Maelstrom itself may cross dimensional boundaries into another space/time. A gateway to another dimension in other words." "I am well aware of what that means Mr. Winters." "Of course you are sir but there may be others here who don't. The gravity well was also restricted to a very short distance from the Maelstrom else we and the Klingons would have been pulled in as well. This indicates it was not naturally occurring and the result of an interaction between our space/time and another. It is possible that the gravity well scanned was not an accessory to the Rhyne's disappearance but was caused by it." As the turbo lift doors opened for the medics to leave Bohb entered, stepping slightly to the side, looking down at the unconscious form of the first officer. He dropped his Òbag of goodiesÓ and moved over to Sekal. ÒSon of Saleke,Ó Bohb announced his arrival with a heavy, but reassuring hand, ÒI see we have Commander Verin, such as she is. Am I to assume that is the reason we had a sudden 87 percent drop in power right before we were cellularly ripped apart?Ó "Indeed." Sekal cast a look in the direction of the turbolift before giving Bohb his full attention. "Luma used her abilities powered by the warp engine to retrieve the Commander and move the ship. She is concerned the Anelurian crystal is cracked and needs replacement." Bohb frowned, and then shrugged. Ò I may have a remedy for that. Something IÕve been working on with Mr. Gregory. Meanwhile I will get to work on the engineering panel,Ó Bohb said. ÒI should have it operational fairly quickly. It wonÕt look pretty, but itÕll work.Ó "Function trumps form in this instance Mr. Bohb, as long as it is operable I will be satisfied. There will be time later for a full replacement." He turned as the Engineer moved off to begin his task. The sense of loss had completely vanished but the anger was ebbing away only slowly. While Sienna Verin had been returned, a number of officers and crew still remained on the ship that had disappeared. Were they still alive somewhere; somewhen? And if so would they be able to retrieve them? The Klingon ships that had attacked Illuminar, pushing the Rhyne into the Maelstrom and inhibiting rescue efforts had much to answer for, they were limiting access to the area even now and he was going to make them pay dearly for it. Sekal's crew was not only his command, it was his life and he had sworn to protect them. And if he received another opportunity he would not fail a second time. He hit the yellow alert button signaling a temporary reduction in alert status. "Lieutenant Trei I will need yourself and Lieutenant T'Mur to give me recommendations concerning the two remaining ships, what their weaknesses are and how to best exploit them." He turned his eyes to her and dipped his chin for an instant. "You performed admirably in the battle and I will expect your presence on the bridge during such confrontations in the future." (Reply: Trei) (Posted by Charles G- Sekal, Skashe Melinda G- Sienna, Luma Kris Bailey- Quinna Al Muir- T'Mur, Bohb) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 2 - VIP Quarters - Temas Laredo - 0201) The only voice that Temas could hear clearly was that of Riven in his mind. ::I can shield you but not indefinitely. Michaella is going to give you a sedative. You understand this?:: ::Yes, I understand. WeÕve been here before havenÕt we.:: ::Good. You are going to be asleep for a while and the intrusions will be blocked for about twelve hours. I won't leave Luma alone but will take your place temporarily. When you are back to full strength we will make the exchange once again. You do understand Luma will be all right?:: Temas wanted to protest, ::But Luma will think IÕve left her. I donÕt want her to feel abandonedÉ again.:: ::I wouldn't dream of letting her suffer. We will have a lot to talk about.:: There was sudden sharp sensation on his neck and an instant wave of relief washed over him. He could feel his eyes getting heavy. Suddenly there was a sensation. The universe suddenly grew very large, then suddenly very small, and he felt that he was there in the center of that universe. Then he felt that universe slip away, and his connection to Luma dissolve. He was alone, for the first time in a long time. Then his world became dark and he was unconscious. (reply none) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 02.05) She was honored that Captain Sekal appreciated her efforts and counted on her in future situations. She kept monitoring the two birds of prey for any activity. There didn't seem to be any for the moment which would give the Illuninar a chance to figure out what to do. She had some theories to try but waited a moment to propose them. "Thank you sir." (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward ) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 02.06) She had a theory that could take out one of the birds of prey using the maelstrom to do it. Essentially the maelstrom will blast one of the Klingon ships with a massive bolt of electricity and give the illuminar time to figure things out. She imagined the maelstrom unloading a massive bolt of lightning like a giant thundercloud. The question is how they were going to execute the action. She addressed the Bridge. "I have a theory sir. Say we use the maelstrom to unload a massive lightning bolt on one of the birds of prey like a giant thundercloud. This will potentially take out one of the birds of prey and give us time to figure things out." (Reply Sekal, T'Shallath, Any) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal- 0207) The Captain was stalking about the bridge uncharacteristically, the report from Skashe Winters would have to be analyzed rigorously and the probe would give them even more information to digest and consider but they would have to get in close to launch it. The klingons if they ran to form however would actively hunt Illuminar and if they believed they had reason to return to the Maelstrom would be watching it closely. His emotional controls were returning slowly but they were returning, had he a chance to leave the bridge and meditate he would have been back to normal, so far that opportunity had not presented itself. ÒCaptain, sickbay is understaffed now with a doctor and several medics now missing with Rhyne. Mr. Quincy is overwhelmed.Ó He turned to regard his third officer, she was of course correct. "You may assist the medical staff doctor as you deem fit and I will expect regular reports on the condition of Commander Verin. If you are required on the bridge I will call you." ÒMy place right now is with Commander Verin, and that is the Chief Medical Officer talking.Ó She noted. He nodded as he watched her turn on her herl and walk off for an instant, there would be no respite for now, it would have to wait. "Mr. Winters has there been anything else to report on the anomaly?" "No sir, we have a lot of data that appears to conflict on the surface but the probe should give us the insights we need once it is launched. The probe itself is almost ready." "Acknowledged. Tactical do you have any readings on the Klingon positions yet?" (Reply: T'Mur) "Activate the cloak as a precaution. We will thoroughly investigate the rendezvous area before decloaking to ensure they were not followed and catch the enemy by surprise if they are." (Reply: T'Mur, Trei) "Mr. Galloway what report on the warp drive?" "Warp drive is still offline, estimated time of repair 2 days Captain, we will have an updated estimate once Lieutenant Bohb has had a chance to look at it." "Acknowledged, as you were." He looked about the bridge as the ship drew slowly closer to the rendezvous location for the shuttles as Illuminar wavered them disappeared from sight. (Reply: Any) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (IKS Hegh boÕDegh Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - HoD BarÕTok - 0210) The Bird of Prey had been coming around for another strike when his Ôor called out, ÒHoD, the DaÕKar is turning towards the Federation ship in the middle of that pabÕjev. Ò ÒPAH,Ó BarÕTok growled, ÒThat worm KarÕchek has finally found a foe worthy of him. Leave him to his prize. We are after greater glories. Turn back on this Illuminar, and prepare to fire.Ó ÒHOD, the other shipÉÓ the voice of his second in command was astounded, Ò it has destroyed the DaÕKar.Ó BarÕTok laughed, ÒA good death then for KarÕchek. Aim weapons at the Illuminar.Ó As he said it he watched the Federation ship almost dissolve in front of them and disappear. A cloaking device? No! ÒWhere are they,Ó the captain bellowed. ÒFind them! Now!Ó The officer behind him called out, ÒIt is over two light years away. How?Ó ÒI do not know,Ó BarÕTok said silently contemplating what happened. His silence made them all nervous. ÒShall we pursue?Ó ÒYes,Ó he replied, then a moment later he cried out, ÒNo! These pataq have left their shuttles behind. They shall return for them. Look they go to meet with their mother ship, like good children. We will stay cloaked, and stay close, and have QlÕtuÕ. When the time is right we will strike. Inform the other ship of our plan.Ó ÒHiÕja HOD,Ó a Klingon nodded and began to send their message. BarÕTok sat back in his seat watching the screen, envisioning the battle before them. Picturing his tactics and possible reactions. It was the closest to playing Klin Zia that he had had in a long time. Oh he was going to enjoy this battle. (reply none, yet) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG - 02.10) One of the Klingon ships turned to pursue them but a low warp which was intriguing in itself. The illuminar made it way to the rendezvous point. they cloaked as a precaution. She kept monitoring for anything that needed reporting. Nothing needed reporting at the moment "The klingon ship is still slowly pursuing but no significant activity to report sir." (Reply Sekal, T'Mur, Any) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO - Lt. TÕMur - 0210) TÕMur found herself uncharacteristically distracted from the moment that Sienna had been taken from the bridge. She had not been able to reconnect with her completely. At least she could feel her alive, and that was nearly enough. It would have to be. She was aware of the doctor telling Sekal that she was going to sickbay to tend to Sienna, but it wasnÕt until she heard his voice did she force herself back into focus. ÒTactical do you have any readings on the Klingon positions yet?" She blinked and looked at here readouts, focusing on where they were, and more importantly, where they were. Ò2.3 light years is well within the range of our long range sensors, Captain,Ó TÕMur finally spoke. ÒHowever the Bird of Prey must still be cloaked as they are not showing. The VorÕhta class, however, has turned in pursuit of us. Curious, they appear to be moving at slow warp.Ó She tapped a button and put the tactical view on the main viewer. ÒI have coded the Klingon ship to show red and the shuttles to show green. Shuttles appear to be moving at maximum velocity. I do not comprehend why the Klingons do not over take and destroy them. And I am concern that the Bird of Prey is, as of yet, undetected.Ó "Activate the cloak as a precaution. We will thoroughly investigate the rendezvous area before decloaking to ensure they were not followed and catch the enemy by surprise if they are." TÕMur nodded, ÒYes sir.Ó She was not completely surprised by the choice, although they were still suffering from the power drain caused by LumaÕs maneuver. She would have to closely watch their power levels. The controls to the cloak came on and with a gentle tap the bridge lights dimmed momentarily as the cloak engaged and the shields dropped to compensate. TÕMur turned to Trei, ÒThe information is unreliable at this distance, but keep attempting to locate the Bird of Prey. Your theory of spacial displacement is still our best option.Ó (reply Trei) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 5 - Sickbay - CMO/3XO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice - 0210) Quinna was all back in composure when she reached sickbay. She ripped off the red tunic and started over to Commander Verin. Medics were getting her cleaned and settled on a biobed. Let's start with the standard tests. Bet a blood culture and let's get some neuro reading.Ó Quinna said. Mason joined her, ÒWhat is going on?Ó Quinna shook her head and Mason knew that it was not good. Reading started to populate the monitor, ÒI have seen some of these readings before.Ó Mason said. He then turned to the nurse, ÒWe need a cellular culture.Ó ÒWhat?Ó Quinna looked puzzled. ÒMr. Day has some of the same readings,Ó Mason said. He then handed Quinna a report. ÒTemporal displacement?Ó Quinna questioned. She had not seen Larry Day and now she was more intrigued. Quinna looked at the read-outs on Commander Verin. ÒHer body is in shock. Let's administer some Dopamine, get some warm blankets on her.Ó Quinna looked at Mason, ÒShe is in Neuro shock. Let's also get her some IV Fluids and Let's also administer some Norepinephrine. Those neuro readings cannot dip. She is showing limited/low brain activity.Ó Quinna pulled up the 3-D interface. She turned to the Commander, ÒWhat the hell happened?Ó Quinna said quietly. Also noted that Commander, cellular age was 6 months older than what it should be. (Replies any) (Posted by Kris B.) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 11- Main Engineering - EO Ð Lt (jg) Bohb- 0320) Once the engineering section had been repaired Bohb quickly made his way back to main engineering. It didnÕt take long to realize that there were no issues with the warp core. The problem with the warp drive lay in damage to the starboard nacelle. He looked at the path to the nacelle and breathed deeply. ÒIÕm getting to old for this,Ó Bohb said to himself, as he grabbed his bag of tools. He pointed to two engineers that looked like they could hold a screwdriver and beckoned them to him. ÒGrab some tools, you two are with me.Ó ÒWhere are we going, Lieutenant?Ó the young ensign asked. ÒÓHave you ever wondered how a warp nacelle works?Ó Bohb continued. ÒI know how it works, sir,Ó the ensign countered. ÒDo you now?Ó Bohb chuckled. ÒThen you can show me what you know. WeÕre heading up the starboard nacelle. If weÕre going to get back into warp, there are some repairs to be done.Ó >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 4 - Sickbay - CTO TÕMur, FO Sienna Williams-Verin, CMO/3O Lt. Commander Quinna Solice- 0330) The Captain had ordered a crew exchange until the rendez-vous window with the shuttles. The logic was solid. It was most unlikely that they would be attacked by the Klingons until that time, and those who had been on the away team had been on duty for over eighteen hours. Even though she had assured Sekal that she did not require rest he insisted. It was true the emotional near loss and recovery of Sienna had affected her. Still, she found that she was unable to rest and had taken to walking the corridors, her mind occupied with what had occurred. She still felt the sting of SekalÕs blow to her cheek. Allowing her feet to lead her and they led her to sickbay. She wanted to see Sienna. Needed to see her. As she entered she could see the medical staff all occupied with their several patients. Her eyes caught Quinna standing over Sienna. She moved over to the room that they were in. ÒDoctor,Ó she said, getting SoliceÕs attention, Òhow is myÉ how is Sienna?Ó Quinna was not surprised when TÕMur showed up. ÒI am not quite sure. Too many questions going on right now.Ó Quinna bit her lower lip. She turned to face TÕMur, ÒHer mind and body are in a state of shock.Ó Quinna decided to not reveal all. Seeing her mate in that condition was É emotional. It was uncomfortable, and everything that she had been wary of in allowing Sienna to go on that mission. At least she was still alive, and that was something. ÒI would like to stay and be with her for a while, if you feel that is appropriate,Ó TÕMur said. ÒI donÕt see why not. See that chair.Ó Quinna pointed to the chair on the far side of the biobed. ÒThat is my chair. You can use it for a while. Then I have to insist on you resting as well.Ó Quinna said, ÒTalk to her.Ó Quinna turned and left. TÕMur found a seat and sat at the bottom of the biobed and looked at the unconscious Sienna. SheÕd watched Sienna sleep many times. Perhaps her love would be uncomfortable knowing how often that occurred. This was different. Her breathing pattern was not as restful, nor did it have its usual rhythmic pattern. It was as if she were still struggling, but to do what was uncertain. She closed her eyes and brought her Vulcan focus to bear. She found the thread of their connection and slowly followed the thread until she was able to encounter the fringes of SiennaÕs mind. ::Oh my love, I wish that I could bear this for you.:: She followed the thread past her preliminary shields along to the activity that she was sensing. Sienna had been aware of very little after her collapse on the bridge. The hell that she had been through felt like forever. The temporal shock had caused her to age 6 months. She had a grey 1 inch lock in her long dark hair. Her eyes were bruised, her skin was cold still and clammy. She was gaunt. Luma had burned a lot of SiennaÕs body fat in order to get her onto the ship in one piece. She was extremely malnourished. Her mind was a fragmented jumble of the sensory hell that the temporal displacement was, and a mess of memories that were not hers. Images of pain, a woman who looked a lot like Sienna fleeing in a shuttle, a truly evil looking man that looked like an older and crueler Sekal pursuing her. Her twin holding a phaser on her, threatening to kill her. Her disabling him as she fled. The memories felt real, but they didnÕt have the feel of ÔSiennaÕ to them. It was like she was mixed with the memories of another universe's Sienna. Deeper in the memories were conflicting ones of the way she had been raised from childhood. In one set she was raised in a cold, calculating family that lived in a gleaming glass and metal tower that was not currently in this universeÕs San Francisco. Her mother, Sophie Verin, fitting her for a leather uniform when Sy was 16. The cold slap from her father, Duke Williams, for assisting someone inferior on an academy test. The pleasure of SiennaÕs first assassination as she slid her knife up and into the body of her immediate supervisor on her first posting on the Mystique. These were not the memories of the Sienna that TÕMur knew. This was something else. Something new, and yet something old. It was Sienna, but not Sienna. TÕMur knew that most beings with a brain had a duality to them but this was different. Along with those wrong memories was the truth of SiennaÕs loving, wonderful upbringing, the day that both of her parents accompanied Sy and Trip to get their standard cadet uniforms fitted. The approval in both parentÕs eyes that the twins were following in their footsteps into Starfleet. As TÕMur scanned the deeper recesses of SiennaÕs mind, TÕMur could sense a tie. To another Sienna. The one who truly held those memories. And there was a problem with this. That Sienna felt far too close. Another flash and TÕMur could see that the other Sienna was in a highly damaged shuttlecraft, currently hiding in the trail of a comet. Was this other Sienna here, in this universe? Would the tie between them fade with distance from the Maelstrom? SiennaÕs fractured mess of a mind finally clarified for a moment, a moment that Sienna was able to latch onto TÕMur, and used their connection to pull herself closer to wakefulness. Then her bodyÕs tension relaxed suddenly, the lines of pain on her face resolving. For a moment she was TÕMurÕs Sy, then she was deeply asleep, her exhausted body beginning to respond to the treatments. TÕMur continued to search for that connection to the other memories, but they were gone. They did not register, even in SiennaÕs own mind. It was as if they had only been a dream, but a dream that had a sense of realism to them. It was too real for TÕMur. She needed to tuck that thought away for a time when she would be able to examine it more thoroughly. For now, she lay her mind beside her SiennaÕs, imaging the two of them together, snuggling, her arms wrapped protectively around her. Then she felt her mate settle into her familiar breathing pattern, so rhythmic and soothed. When TÕMur opened her eyes she realized that she was holding SiennaÕs hand. Slowly, reluctantly, she released it and sat back in QuinnaÕs chair. She steepled her fingers, and as she watched her loveÕs chest rise and fall began to contemplate the visions they had shared. (reply none) (posted by Al Muir, Kris B. and Mel G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Starboard Warp Nacelle - EO Ð Lt (jg) Bohb- 0523) Two hours later, the young woman who had thought she knew how a warp nacelle worked was eating those words. She had studied the workings of the nacelles, but Bohb had been having her dismantle the plasma injector, piece by piece. ÒSir,Ó Ensign Sato asked. ÒAre you certain that this is necessary?Ó Bohb stopped his work on the warp coils and narrowed his eyes, ÒHow long do you expect this repair to take, Enign Sato?Ó His question caught her by surprise. She blinked then thought, then answered with a heavy sigh, ÒMost likely, without the intervention of another ship bring what we need, a week, maybe two.Ó Bohb nodded, ÒMy assessment as well. However, if we fabricate what we need and build our own plasma injector, and resurface the warp coils I believe we can affect these repairs in three days, maybe two.Ó Cadet Stephanson gasped from the other side of the nacelle, ÒTwo days!Ó Bohb nodded, ÒBut your disassembly of the injector must be methodical and exact. Otherwise, the results could beÉ catastrophic.Ó The room became silent once again, and Sato began to work with more diligence than she had before. Bohb turned back to his own worked and began to chuckle to himself. It wasnÕt completely dishonest. He had already disassembled and reassembled plasma injector several times on the holodeck. It would take the time he had confessed, but now he would have taught others how to rebuild an injector as well. (reply none) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar -- CMO Office -- Deck 5 -- CMO/3XO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice --0715 ) Quinna left her office. She managed to get in a nap here and there but with Michael not being there. Even not knowing, where he was, haunted her dreams. Mason had taken care of sickbay once all the patients were all settled. QuinnaÕs place was back on the Bridge. She reached over on her couch. Pulled the RED jacket off the couch and put it on. She felt the neck was tighter than the one on her medical blue jacket. Made her way to the bridge, but before she made one stop. There was something she needed to do. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar -- The Rec Room -- Deck 11 -- 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice -- 0718) Quinna walked into the lounge. Not thinking of the time she looked for Becca. She wanted to cancel the Wetting down. She was no longer in the mood for any party. Quinna saw no one and realized the time. ÒOh, Quinna you are so stupid right now.Ó Quinna shook her head. ÒOf course, no one would be hereÉÓ She turned to head back out of the lounge. (Reply any IYW) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CO - Captain Sekal- 0720) Illuminar was closing in on the shuttles that had already arrived at the rendezvous location. Cloak was still active and backup power had been restored to 68%. On many ships this would be considered detrimental however the warp drive engine was more than sufficient to handle the task of running cloak along with any other systems needed. With the warp drive offline every bit of high energy plasma was going to other systems while the engine itself had been reduced to 20% output. Environmental and other systems had been switched over to the warp engine to allow the impulse reactors to operate more efficiently. Backup generators were on standby to handle the load in the event of an emergency. In short Illuminar was operating just as intended. The location of the rendezvous had been chosen for a particular purpose, a comet had recently cross this area of space leaving a wide trail of ice and particulate matter. A cloaked ship would need to remain outside this zone or risk detection. Illuminar had made a significant alteration to its course and elevation to come upon the location from the far side. Sekal was no fool, any Klingon ship attempting to find them would not be able to resist following the shuttles to the mother ship. It was basic tactics 101, lead the enemy into a compromising location. The Klingons in short had been led into a trap. The Vulcan CO himself was more or less back to normal. "Helm take us into the comets tail and signal the shuttles to prepare for a return to the ship." "Aye sir, reducing speed to one half impulse, rendezvous in 10 minutes." "Tactical decloak. Torpedoes on proximity detonation and stand by, if you have a target fire at will." (T'Mur, Trei) "We have entered the tail Captain." Lieutenant Grey Wolf called out. He leaned back in the command chair and with his right hand ready to tap the red alert button if an enemy was sighted. This game was afoot and for the Klingons a glorious day to die. (Reply: Any) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - CTO Ð Lt. TÕMur- 0723) TÕMur was back at her station, monitoring all of the tactical systems. Her time in Sickbay with Sienna did not give her the ease that she had hoped that it would. She doubted that she would fully relax until her mate was back home. She had taken some time to go to their quarters to tend to SiennaÕs cat, Kenna. TÕMur was certain that the feline was not fond of her intrusion into their lifestyle. And the Vulcan was not, what anyone would call, compassionate with the animal. Still, Kenna must have been somewhat aware that her mistress was in trouble, or that TÕMur was in need of comfort. She had curled up into TÕs lap and purred a comforting purr. She could still feel that purr in her fingers now, as she scanned for the Klingo vessels as they approached the shuttles "Tactical decloak. Torpedoes on proximity detonation and stand by, if you have a target fire at will." TÕMur didnÕt really need the direction as the preset controls had already been there. She tapped the button and there was a slight hum, and the lights on the bridge shifted slightly as the Illuminar came out of cloak mode. ÒCloak has been disengaged,Ó TÕMur reported, Òweapons systems are powered up and ready.Ó "We have entered the tail Captain." Lieutenant Grey Wolf called out. ÒShuttles are at the rendez-vous point and ready to come aboard,Ó TÕMur said. ÒThere is no sign of the Klingons, although they are, most likely, cloaked and waiting for us to drop our shields. Should we be prepared for the shuttles?Ó There was a double meaning behind her question. (reply Sekal) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar Ð Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 07.25) T'Mur was ready to fire torpedoes at any sign of a Klingon ship. Ariel had a possible tactic of her own. The shuttles could fire their phasers to call out the Klingon ships positions. She knew that would put the rescue teams in harms way and she felt a sense of compassion for them. He Klingon side saw the glory and honor of taking down dishonorable rogues. That is the calculation she had to use. The sacrifice to draw out the rogues and bring honor to the federation was the price she had to pay. "Sir. Say the shuttle fire their phasers set to the Klingon ships signature to call out their position. I am aware this puts them in harms way and I feel compassion for that scenario. When the Klingon ships are called out, we blow them to space dust. The dishonorable rogues need to be eliminated." (Reply Sekal, T'Mur, Any) Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminal -- Bridge Deck 1 -- 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice -- 0728) Quinna entered the Bridge. Looking around. She heard Trei speak up. She wondered if Trei had a break. "Sir. Say the shuttle fire their phasers set to the Klingon ships signature to call out their position. I am aware this puts them in harms way and I feel compassion for that scenario. When the Klingon ships are called out, we blow them to space dust. The dishonorable rogues need to be eliminated." Quinna smiled. Viewing Ariel's Klingon side made Quinna happy for a bit. She was excited that Ariel was expressing her other parts with her Betazoid part being suppressed at this moment. ÒHere here, Lt, Trei. Send those dishonorable Klingons to Gre'Thor.Ó (Reply Trei, Sekal) Quinna moved to the XO seat and took her spot. ÒRemind me later that the Chief Medical wants to meet with you,Ó Quinna said Quietly to Captain Sekal. (Reply Sekal) (Posted by Kris B.) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar -- Deck 1 -- Bridge -- CO - Captain Sekal --0740) The Illuminar was maneuvering into final position to recover the shuttles. Sekal was loose but poised. "Sir. Say the shuttle fire their phasers set to the Klingon ships signature to call out their position. I am aware this puts them in harms way and I feel compassion for that scenario. When the Klingon ships are called out, we blow them to space dust. The dishonorable rogues need to be eliminated." The Captain heard the lift door open behind him and the voice of his aFO. ÒHere here, Lt, Trei. Send those dishonorable Klingons to Gre'Thor.Ó (Reply Trei iyw) "Has there been any evidence of Klingon activity Lieutenant?" (Reply: Trei) He nodded his head as Quinna took her seat. "My order still stands, if you see evidence of Klingon activity you may fire at will. Once their cloak is disabled switch to phasers, I anticipate we may be forced to ration our torpedoes for future use." (Reply: Trei) "Mr. Winters assist Tactical with scans of the area, if a ship appears I do not want to be caught unawares." "Aye, aye sir. I'm interfaced with the tactical station now and can feed it coordinates in the event of gravimetric distortions or tachyon particle readings. Due to the particulate dispersal in this region any material displacement will also be impossible to hide. If you don't mind my saying so it looks like you picked a prime spot for an ambush." "You are correct Mr. Winters, continue as you are." ÒRemind me later that the Chief Medical wants to meet with you." He turned his head. "Acknowledged, it is a certainty that I will have questions for my chief medical officer during that meeting." (Reply: Quinna) "Helm are we in position to pick up the shuttles?" "Yes Captain, standing by." "Excellent. Remain at our current heading. Have the shuttles set up position aft of the shuttlebay and fifty meters from the hull then open a point to point communication with them on a coded frequency." Illuminar had come into the comet's tail from the opposite side which meant that a cloaked ship if one was there would have to maneuver around behind them for this if they wished to fire on an unprotected section of the ship. To do so without being spotted would be impossible. What he was about to order was not standard procedure and carried an element of risk, but one that could be managed. Illuminar was held in place by maneuvering thrusters as the three shuttles which had been sent out for the emergency evacuation of the Rhyne left their positions and began moving aft of the ship as the Captain waited patiently. "What is Commander Verin's status?" He asked Quinna as they stood by, the bridge was currently quiet save for the beep and whirr of consoles. (Reply: Quinna plenty of room) "Mr.Ogilvie listen to my order closely, on my mark you will deactivate shield emitter number 12 for exactly 10 seconds, no more. Do you understand?" "Sir?" The operations officer turned in his seat and frowned for an instant before the location struck him and he chuckled. "You mean the shield emitter that protects the aft of the secondary hull of course." "Exactly. Lieutenant Grey Wolf, open the docking bay doors." "Aye sir. Doors opening. The shuttles are almost in position." "Open that channel." He listened to the shuttles check in before speaking. "This is the Captain, are your shields active?" =^= Aye sir, yes sir, affirmative.=^= Came from the three. "Move forward slowly until you contact the shielding just aft of the docking bay and begin remodulating your shielding,.you will not be there long enough to get a match however. On my mark the Salvador, Cabrillo and Johnson will make directly for the shuttlebay. Do not dawdle gentlemen, you have only ten seconds for all three craft to get within the shielding. and make your landings quickly." =^= "Yes sir. On your order. Moving into position.=^= His fingers rested near the alert controls as he waited for them to report ready. "Captain, shuttles report they are in position and in contact with the shielding." "Now Mr. Ogilvie." "Shield emitter 12 down." "All shuttles begin your maneuver." "Shuttlecraft heading for the docking bay Captain." "9 seconds, eight...." (Reply: Any) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (IKS Hegh boÕDegh Ð Deck 1 - Bridge - HoD BarÕTok - 0741) The HeghÕboÕDegh had followed the shuttles, giving them plenty of room. It wasnÕt as if they would be able to out run his ship. But he had been concerned when the Federation ship had disappeared from their scans. ~So these Federation dawgs had a cloaking device. TheyÕll have to show themselves eventually.~ BarÕTok remained patient. He had convinced the HOD of the HakÕchu to follow his lead. He seemed as interested in bringing home this prize as BarÕTok did. ÒHoD, the Federation ship has reappeared. Apparently decloaked.Ó ÒMonitor for their transmission,Ó BarÕTok ordered. They watched and monitored as thisÉ Illuminar positioned itself behind the tail of a comet. It was a brilliant strategy as BarÕTok was now aware they would not be able to position themselves without giving away their position. ÒHail the HakÕchu,Ó BarÕTok called out. The image of the captain of the VorÕcha class cruiser appeared. The two exchange pleasant insults before BarÕTok took control of the conversation. ÒWhen I give the signal, decloaked and bring your weapons to bear on the forward section of the ship. This should allow me to come in behind and hit them as they weaken their shields to allow their shuttles to go home.Ó =^=HIÕja.=^= came the response from the HakÕchu. The screen shimmered back to the forward view of the scene unfolding before them. ÒGo easy degh,Ó BarÕTok said to his helmsman. ÒBring us around the far side of the comet. We will drop our cloak, raise our shields, and run through the comet's tail. If we coordinate this with the attack of the HakÕchu we should be able to exact some damage before they can stop it.Ó ÒHIÕja, HoD,Ó the helmsman replied. BarÕTok watch the space field shift as they maneuvered to where he had wanted. He believed that the tail of the comet would produce enough radiation to mask their exact position. ÒSignal the HakÕchu,Ó BarÕTok ordered. ÒDrop the cloak. Full shields. Come around to 84.6 mark 66.7. Prepare all weapons to fire. Target the first two shuttles with our disrupters, and the Illuminar with our missiles. yIHIv!Ó (reply Illuminar) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge -- CTO Ð Lt. TÕMur - 0743) TÕMur raised an eyebrow at the suggestion of Trei to leave the shuttles out as bait for the Klingons. Not nearly as surprised as she was by SoliceÕs response. She was actually encourage a sacrifice? That did not sound like her Quinna. ÒI am almost certain, Doctor, Lt. Trei,Ó TÕMur looked at them coldly, Òthat those pilots and their families would not be as excited by the sacrifice that you a willing to make.Ó (reply Trei, Solice) "Has there been any evidence of Klingon activity Lieutenant?" ÒNo sir,Ó the Tactical Officer replied. ÒHowever, they could be sitting still, which would not leave any trace of special displacement.Ó "My order still stands,Ó Sekal said, sitting down, Òif you see evidence of Klingon activity you may fire at will. Once their cloak is disabled switch to phasers, I anticipate we may be forced to ration our torpedoes for future use." ÒAgreed,Ó TÕMur replied. She pulled up the inventory to see exactly how many torpedoes they had remaining. "Mr. Winters assist Tactical with scans of the area, if a ship appears I do not want to be caught unawares." "Aye, aye sir. I'm interfaced with the tactical station now and can feed it coordinates in the event of gravimetric distortions or tachyon particle readings. Due to the particulate dispersal in this region any material displacement will also be impossible to hide. If you don't mind my saying so it looks like you picked a prime spot for an ambush." She watched as the young Mr. Winters accessed her station. With the tap of a few keys she was able to share information, both ways. She could also see what he was finding on his station. She downloaded the programing to scan for the distortions that he was looking for. Tachyon particles were difficult to look for as they tended to have random readings in space, but it could give them a early warning. The captain ordered the ship into position to pick up the shuttles, around the tail of the comet. The problem of this trap would be if the Klingon ship did not come all the way around the tail, but foolishly decided to travel through it, in a more direct attack. "Helm are we in position to pick up the shuttles?" "Yes Captain, standing by." Suddenly the captain asked Solice about the condition of Sienna. TÕMur focused her hearing to catch the response, however, she already knew what the doctor was going to say. She could feel it through their bond. Sekal gave his orders to the Ops officer to adjust the shields for ten seconds. This was the moment they had been waiting for. "Captain, shuttles report they are in position and in contact with the shielding." "Now Mr. Ogilvie." "Shield emitter 12 down." "All shuttles begin your maneuver." "Shuttlecraft heading for the docking bay Captain." "9 seconds, eight...." There was an alert from her panel, ÒCaptain, Kligon VorÕcha class ship decloaking forward, and firing. Adjusting shielding.Ó The ship shuddered slightly. Then her panel beeped again. ÒA second ship, Bird of Prey, is coming through the cometÕs tail,Ó she reported. ÒFiring.Ó She fired phasers, concentrating on the Bird of Prey, a second volley phasers was followed by a series of three torpedoes. The Bird of Prey had three direct hits. It continued its forward motion but the scans showed that it no longer had shields and showed substantial damage. Then she took a breath. ÒCaptain, the Bird of Prey is in the process of a warp core breach,Ó she said. ÒIt has set a direct course at us.Ó (reply Sekal, any) (posted by Al Muir) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge -- CO Ð Captain Sekal - 0745) ÒCaptain, Klingon VorÕcha class ship decloaking forward, and firing. Adjusting shielding.Ó The Vor'cha appeared on the screen as it's cloak was deactivated and a virulent red glow built quickly at its nose where its main disruptor cannon was located. Sekal's index finger had already tapped the button at her call and battle alert status was sounding. The corruscating red and orange ball of energy and superheated plasma leapt toward Illuminar and was absorbed by its forward shielding. Situated as they were within the comet's tail however gave his ship a more distinct advantage as Illuminar rocked from the deadly release of energy. The Bird of Prey was his more immediate concern due to their role in this shell game but in order to play they were going to have to expose themselves, willingly or not. ÒA second ship, Bird of Prey, is coming through the cometÕs tail,Ó she reported. ÒFiring.Ó Sekal's fingers danced on the master control for the viewscreen situated to his left and the screen switched to follow the torpedoes as they neared their targeted location. Two detonated and the Bird of Prey shimmered into existence within the afterglow of their explosions. Phaser fire followed immediately and struck the ship which had completed its turn toward them. Violent energy danced over its shielding before it collapsed and the area around its disruptor cannon and port nacelle flared as the phased energy superheated the metal, some of which broke away in brilliant sparkles. ÒCaptain, the Bird of Prey is in the process of a warp core breach,Ó she said. ÒIt has set a direct course at us.Ó "Switch main phaser bank to dark matter alignment and fire Lieutenant." (Reply: T'Mur) A simple knowledge of tactics had warned him to expect an attack here, an equally simple knowledge of Klingons explained why they would choose to commit suicide by attempting to ram his ship hoping to take an enemy with them into death. Sekal leaned forward expectantly as the phaser bank was cycled then released a barrage upon the weakened enemy. The violet stream of energy sizzled through space, consuming ice crystals, dust and micron sized debris with equal hunger, each contact flaring for a microsecond until the entirety of its course was lit by a nimbus of violent destruction as the atomic structure of matter was literally ripped to shreds by it. Not that it was a long and drawn out spectacle as all of this occured at the speed of light. The Bird of Prey flared for an instant, surrounded by the purplish halo before disintegrating in a massive explosion as tens of thousands of metric tons of matter was completely disrupted all at once. The flare of its destruction would last for millennia as the light from the explosion traversed space. "Shield 12 is active!" "Lieutenant Grey Wolf, are the shuttles down?" "Shuttles down sir, my board reads green." "Close the hanger doors and begin evasive maneuvers, Lieutenant T'Mur, return to normal phaser alignment and target the Vor'hta., fire when ready." (Reply: T'Mur) Sekal leaned back then into the chair as the ship shuddered again from another disruptor blast. 2 of the 3 enemy ships were now permanently out of the action,whether the Vor'hta was destroyed, disabled or put to flight didn't matter, as soon as it was dealt with they could return to the Maelstrom and begin investigating if and how he could get the rest of his crew home. The final disposition of the Hak'chu didn't concern him, they would make their own fate. They were now merely another obstacle to overcome and would be treated accordingly. (Reply: Any) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (IKS Hak'chu - Deck 1 - Command Center -- hOd Ð Pel'Kash - 0747) "Bah!" The disruptor cannon flared and its deadly cargo was launched at the Federation ship. The impact splashed across its shields with no perceptible damage. "No damage hOd." "Gehk! WHY? Why do our weapons do no effect to this ship?" ""In their words Quantum Displacement Shielding. It must be." "What?" He rounded on his tactical officer. "ylDoghQo! There has been no evidence they have made this breakthrough!" "Look at their power curve hOd. This ship is beyond anything they have ever sent out." Pel'kash was no fool but the idea of this type of shielding being developed by the Federation had been hinted at for over 30 years and they had never successfully done so. "hOd! The Hegh bo degh!" His eyes had caught a brilliant flash from the screen and his head around to to see the Bird of Prey struck by phasers. "Bah! The Fek'lir take you. Bah! jagh yibuStaH1" "hOd.! THier reactor will overload, they seek to ram." He chuckled. "blSeH'eghlaH'be'chughlath Dara'laH'be" What he saw next as the Hak'chu fired made his mouth snap shut then drop open in surprise. A brilliant beam of purplish energy lashed out from the Illuminar and struck the Hegh bo degh amidships. The ship almost immediately began to glow that same deep shade of purple before erupting in a titanic explosion. He stepped back in shock as he heard cries of disbelief raised around him. What was that? Quantum Displacement shielding, was it possible? And what was this new weapon? "Orders hOd! What are your orders?" "meqtaHbogh qachDaq Suv goH neh! Turn us about and go to warp petaQ!" As the Illuminar turned its attention back to the Hak'chu is was already beginning to accelerate away. Pel'kash stepped to his command chair and sat down as he waited for his ship to be likewise incinerated. Two Klingon ships, one like his own, had already been destroyed and only a fool fights in a house that is burning. Pel'kash was no fool and Sto-Voh-Kor was not the reward of fools but warriors. What shielding the other ship was using couldn't yet be proven but his superiors would wish to know the things they had found out here today. There was no glory to be found in this battle, only mindless death. (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge SPA LT JG Ariel Trei - 07.50) The action started and she was going to enjoy blasting holes in the Klingon ships. The Klingons needed to be splattered across space like snakes from a desert bomb. The Illuminar took a few hits and rocked a bit, but when the shuttles were safely aboard Ariel fired away at the infidels with vengeance. She was sure she hit the target. One of the Klingon ships was probably out of commission but that didn't matter she kept on firing. She imagined each blowing holes in the Klingon ships like phaser practice or batt'leff thrusts in the heat of battle. This was going to be fun. "Yes sir. Firing at the snake infidels and enjoying it sir." (Reply Seka, T'Mur, Any) (Posted by Edward) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge 3XO/CMO Lt. Commander Quinna Solice -- 0755) Quinna sat in the XO seat. QuinnaÕs mentality had changed. She snapped at TÕMur twice. One when TÕMur pushed past her to check to see if Commander Verin was still alive and the second one when she came back on the Bridge. Quinna flashbacked, ÒI am almost certain, Doctor, Lt. Trei,Ó TÕMur said, Òthat those pilots and their families would not be as excited by the sacrifice that you are willing to make.Ó Quinna glared at TÕMur, ÒAd do you think the Klingons are thinking about our families or even us when they fired upon us?Ó For a moment, Quinna wondered if she was off subject about the topic they were talking about. Now, Quinna sat in her seat. Perhaps she should go back to holding her tongue but this situation has become even more personal for her than any other mission. It was hard for her to deal with it. "What is Commander Verin's status?" He asked Quinna as they stood by, the bridge was currently quiet save for the beep and whirr of consoles. Quinna stirred from her inner thoughts and refocused. ÒIt is good right now. Her body and mind have gone through some shock. She is responding to the meds. But what is troubling me isÉÓ Quinna took a deep breathÉ Quinna moved in to express the rest quietly so no one else on the bridge can hearÉ ÒI am not sure how, but her body, her uniform, are all approximately six months older than yesterday. The instant aging is what sent her into shock. And apparently, she is not alone in this. Another patient in sickbay is experiencing temporal displacement as well. I am not wanting this to get around. (Reply Sekal) ÒDr. Quincy is monitoring them now,Ó Quinna added, assuring that they were not unattended. (Reply Sekal) Quinna sat and thought for a moment. She was about to apologize for her change in behavior when she felt the shake of the incoming fire. Quinna turned to Trei who seemed to be enjoying this a bit too much. "Yes sir. Firing at the snake infidels and enjoying it sir." Was it wrong that Quinna wanted to laugh right now? (Reply Sekal, Trei, TÕMur, any) (Posted by Kris B) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (USS Illuminar - Deck 1 - Bridge - CO, Captain Sekal -- 0800) ÒIt is good right now. Her body and mind have gone through some shock. She is responding to the meds. But what is troubling me isÉI am not sure how, but her body, her uniform, are all approximately six months older than yesterday. The instant aging is what sent her into shock. And apparently, she is not alone in this. Another patient in sickbay is experiencing temporal displacement as well. I am not wanting this to get around.". Sekal nodded slowly. ÒDr. Quincy is monitoring them now,Ó "Excellent work." "Yes sir. Firing at the snake infidels and enjoying it sir." Sekal turned an eye toward Lt. Trei for an instant who was showing obvious pleasure at her work. "Illogical." He was prepared to say more but was interrupted. "The Klingons are running sir." His attention returned fully to the viewscreen where the warship had turned and was accelerating away, a final phaser blast hit their aft shielding before the ship went to warp and disappeared. "Mr. Winters, follow that ship." "Scanners following it now sir, they are going to high warp and maintaining their heading." "Estimated destination?" "If they stay on course sir, well it looks like they're going home. They are on course for Qo'nos according to navigational charts." "Cease fire and power down weapons, you may lower the shields Lieutenant T'Mur but maintain your vigilance." (Reply: T'Mur, Trei) His finger hit the 'all clear' button and the alert lamps went out. "Lieutenant Grey Wolf set course back for the Maelstrom at best speed." "Aye, aye Captain, laying in course. ETA 18 hours at full impulse." "Engage." Illuminar turned and accelerated. He tapped a button and spoke, his voice carrying through the bridge. "Captain's log, addendum. With the loss of the Rhyne Lieutenant T'Mur is hereby given the responsibility and oversight of both Tactical and Security and will remain head of a united department unless and until conditions change. By order of myself, Commanding Officer, Captain Sekal." He then switched it off and turned toward Quinna. "Lieutenant Commander, our presence is once again necessary in that sector in order to determine the final fate of the Rhyne, I would suggest efforts be geared toward finding a solution to the destabilizing factors there or we will once again be faced with madness and a deranged crew. You have 18 hours to accomplish this, after you take some downtime of course.." (Reply: Quinna, any) His finger hit the shipwide comm. "Gamma shift will remain on duty for the next six hours, alpha rotation will resume at 0600 tomorrow, beta rotation begins at the normal time. All crew not on gamma shift are to take a mandatory 6 hours of downtime." His finger tapped the button again as his eyes turned to Quinna. "That includes yourself doctor and is an order." (Reply: Quinna, any) (Posted by Charles G) (Posted by Charles G) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (Celestial Temple, Home of the Prophets -- The Sisko and Jaton - 0800?) What is the meaning of time in a timeless place. In truth it is unknown because there past, present and future intermingle. There is no then, now and later, it is all NOW! Which is why those who came before the Sisko and those who came after him are, were, will be an anomaly. How can you exist in the present but live in the past through a memory yet still remain in the now in linear time? Even more importantly how can there be a beginning and an end when all one knows is NOW? The one once known as Benjamin Sisko was well aware of the paradox among the others and had tried to explain it. The one known as Jaton Alyl was aware of it as well. "Now I'm even more confused than I was before. First Q then you claim to have brought me back to life and now I'm here in the Celestial Temple, wherever here is. And you claimed I had a purpose but look where it all ended up. I'm dead again but I guess this is preferable to an eternity of darkness and ... nothingness." The Sisko turned to the one known as Jaton. They were standing in a field of tropical flowers under a clear sky. The verdant foliage hinted at Trill, a place out of memory for the other. He didn't answer the comment immediately but looked around. "Dax told me a lot about this place, enough that it almost feels familiar." "What? Here?" Jaton looked around then shrugged. "It was my home planet, the last time I saw it was during a diplomatic mission ... and my brother." He grew silent for a moment. "You haven't replied to my comment." Sisko turned to him with that disarming smile. "Why are you in such a hurry? There is no end of time for it." "Yes, I understand that." Jaton snapped, he was a bit peevish about the whole situation and Sisko's manners weren't helping his mood. "Perhaps if you replied within the first thousand years it would be helpful." Sisko laughed and picked a flower, it snapped off the stem perfectly, its aroma brought his mind back to earlier times within his linear time frame. "You accomplished your purpose." "And what was that?" Jaton started pacing around, in the back of his mind he knew he was expected to be as happy as a pig in slop as the old Terran saying went but he was saving that for later... after he had some answers. "All right then I'll speak metaphorically." Sisko stuffed the flower into a pocket that hadn't been there before. "It has religious significance which is very profound, see if you can follow it." "Hit me!" Jaton was eager to get some answers at last. "I've been laughingly called the wormhole Jesus at times, had you heard that?" "Said it myself a few times, especially after you showed up." Sisko laughed. "There was one of him, one savior on Earth but there have been a number of emissaries, I was the last." "Was?" "Yes. You had thought you might be another Apostle Paul." "And what of it?" "You were more of a John the Baptist, a forerunner." "Say what?" "A witness, a stepping stone to the new emissary." "I don't understand." "He was right under your nose, and now your task has been finished." "Under my nose? Where?" Sisko smiled but was interrupted before he could say anything. "My, my. A theoretical metaphysical discussion. Do you mind if I join in?" For the first time in a very long time.... or was it only a few seconds ago? Time had no meaning... Sisko frowned as he turned to face the interloper. "Q." "Yes. I'm sure you missed me didn't you?" Q stood before them looking no different than the day Benjamin Sisko had last seen him. "I certainly have not missed you Q." "Neither have I." Jaton gave the being a disgusted look. "The last time I saw you I punched you in the nose and I can do a lot worse now Q. You had better say what you came to say quickly then leave." Q chuckled at the Sisko's glare. "Yes you did and yes you can, you could even expel me from your dimension if you wished but why? I've done nothing to offend and actually came to offer my services.To just get rid of me on a whim? Now, now there. You should at least try to play the good host for once.Benjamin." "And what service do you think you could offer any of us Q?" Sisko'd eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Why, I could watch over the little tyke for you." Sisko's jaw clenched and his right hand balled into a fist. "Going to revert to old habits eh? How quaint. Oh yes I know about your future emissary, nothing happens in the universe I watch over without me knowing about it." Q gave his most disarming smile. Sisko stepped directly up to the mercurial being and glared at him. "Don't even think about touching that child Q." He only laughed. "Mui?I wouldn't think of it. Oh how little you think of me." "You have no idea how little I think of you Q." Sisko growled in his face. "Now leave and don't come back. And if you try anything...." Q shrugged his shoulders smugly. "I know, I know, there's no need for threats." he gave a sly look and his voice upon speaking was droll. "But I'd like to see you try. Goodbye for now, It's been a joy rehashing old times." With that he raised his right hand and snapped his fingers. "I don't like that guy." Jaton muttered when he had disappeared in a flash. Sisko turned to him with a serious look. "It appears the devil has put in an appearance at the heavenly court. His reason for coming here was obvious, he wanted us to know that he knew." Sisko turned away. "And that concerns me." (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles G) -----------------------------------------------------END TRANSMISSION------------------------------------------------------